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THE 



YOUNG PASTOR'S WIFE, 



MEMOIR OF 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON : 



CONTAINING HER 



BIOGMPHl DIART, LETTERS, ETC. 



BY HORACE MOULTON. 



" A woman that feareth the Lord she shall be praised. Give her 
the fruit of her hands ; and let her own works praise her in the 
gates." — Prov. xxxi. 30-31. 






BOSTON: 
^AITE, PEIRCE AND COMPANY, 

No. 1 CornhiU. 

1845, 






^ 



Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1845, 

BY H. MOULTON, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the District of 

Massachusetts. 



i ^ ^ ^ 



Reid & Rand, Printers, 
No. 3 Cornhill, Boston. 



PREFACE. 



The Biographer presents this brief memoir to the 
public? with unaffected diffidence. This feeling is 
produced partly by distrusting his own abilities to 
prepare the work, and partly by a consciousness that 
it would become necessary to introduce an outline 
of the result of his own labors in connection with 
those of his subject, that the readers of the book 
might the better understand the extensiveness, as 
well as the results, of those pious and persevering 
efforts in which Mrs. M. was so zealously engaged 
for nineteen years. And it is hoped that the great 
revivals, in which both were engaged, are so pre- 
sented, that the biographer will not be considered an 
egotist, sounding his own trumpet ; for nothing could 
be farther from his design. Still it was thought best 
to present the book in its present form, hoping by 
this plan, it would be read with greater avidity, and 
be more extensively useful to all, into whose hands 



IV PRETACE. 

it may fall, by presenting to the reader a greater 
variety. It is not pretended that the excellency of 
our subject consisted in the development of extraor- 
dinary powers of mind, or in a brilliancy of talents ; 
but it is believed that it did consist in deep and 
glowing piety, in uniform and persevering obedience 
to all the commands of God, and in constant personal 
efforts for the salvation of souls. These traits in her 
christian character will embalm her memory and 
make it precious, like that of the just. She was 
one among the number of the saints of the Most 
High, who in her early experience explored the 
" breadth, and length, and depth, and height, of the 
love of Christ," and to the honor of God's grace be 
it spoken, she was a living witness, for eighteen 
years, " that the blood of Christ cleanseth from all 
sin." During this period of time, she spread a knowl- 
edge of this full salvation as far as the providence 
of God, in her situation, permitted. 

To that class of christians who are aspiring after 
all the mind of Christ, and are desiring to carry out 
all the great principles of religion, by bearing every 
cross, doing every duty, and enduring hardness as 
good soldiers of Jesus Christ, this little volume can- 
not fail of being very useful. 



PREFACE. 



While rehearsing the vicissitudes, and the many 
painful conflicts which our subject endured in her 
brief career, her happy and triumphant death, my 
heart is animated to seek for higher spiritual attain- 
ments, that I, through grace, may overcome every 
foe, and share the same triumphant death, and enjoy 
the same glory, that I fully believe she now pos- 
sesses in the Paradise of God. The narrative, so 
far as materials could be obtained, is given in the 
language of our subject. Her letters and diary are 
so arranged, and connected, with circumstances, in- 
cidents, and remarks of my own, as to give variety 
and interest to the whole, and assist the reflections 
of the reader. 

I cannot close this preface without remarking, that 
the reasons why this memoir did not make its ap- 
pearance before, were, the idea of publishing it was 
abandoned, after some considerable progress had 
been made in preparing it, on account of having 
learned that some of her most important letters and 
writings were destroyed ; the scantiness of means, 
also, together with the " perplexities and difficulties'* 
of collecting, and preparing the book for the press, 
almost dissuaded the author from his purpose. But, 



VI PREFACE. 

after much prayer, and more mature reflection, being 
convinced that the biography would prove an auxil- 
iary to the humble christian in his pathway through 
this vale of tears, the memoir is at length presented 
to the careful and prayerful perusal of the public 
generally. 

It is not presumed, even, that the result of his 
labors is without its faults, but still it is hoped that 
the attentive reader will say, when its contents shall 
have been examined, " with all its faults I love it 
still." And now that this little volume is closed, it 
is commended to the " Divine Blessing," earnestly 
hoping and praying that it may subserve the interests 

of our common Christianity. 

The Author. 
JVewhunff January, 1845. 



CONTEXTS, 



CHAPTER I. 
Birth. Early Life. Conversion and Experience, 5 

CHAPTER II. 

Her estimation of the doctrine of Holiness. Rem- 
iniscences of her sister. Learns a trade. Reli- 
gious faithfulness and success, while working as 
a tailoress. Returns home and teaches school. 
Interest for scholars. Removes to Oxford. Pro- 
claims faithfully the great salvation, with suc- 
cess, in Oxford and Dudley, - - ' - 23 

CHAPTER III. 

Continued labors and usefulness in Dudley. Se- 
lections from her correspondence and diary, 43 

CHAPTER IV. 

Becomes a member of the Wesleyan Academy at 
Wilbraham. Religious exercises and corres- 
pondence. Letter from a Wesleyan Preacher 
upon the doctrine of Holiness, • - - 59 



Vill CONTENTS* 

CHAPTER V. 

Leaves Wilbraham, and is married to Rev. Samuel 
Estin. Stationed in Greenwich — usefulness 
here. Sickness and death of her husband. Mar- 
riage with Rev. Horace Moulton, - - 81 

CHAPTER VI. 

Early life — call to preach, and first pastoral labors 
of Mr. M. Great trial on Tolland circuit. East 
Windsor circuit. Painful baptismal scene. Wales 
and the neighboring towns. Temperance strug- 
gles. Rupture with Presiding Elder. Hebron. 
Ministerial support. Mrs. Moulton's diary con- 
tinued. Gill circuit, 97 

CHAPTER Vn. 

Great revival on Gill circuit, especially in Charle- 
mont and Greenfield, 123 

CHAPTER Vm. 
Phillipston circuit. Diary and active labors of 
Mrs. M. Conversion of her mother. Provi- 
dential escape from imminent danger, - 139 

CHAPTER IX. 
Wales. Remarkable answer to prayer in the re- 
covery of her daughter. Granville circuit. Re- 
vivals in Blandford and Middlefield. Corres- 
pondence. Wonderful escape from small pox, 151 



CONTENTS. IX 

CHAPTER X. 

BelcTiertown. Devout letters to friends. Marl- 
borough, 177 

CHAPTER XI. 

Labors, disappointments and trials in Billerica. 
Providential opening at Wellfleet ; labors in the 
latter place. Ashburnham, All Mrs. M.'s family 
converted. Revival on circuit. Temperance 
movement among the ladies, - - - 198 

CHAPTER Xn. 

Ashburnham — second year. Interesting revival 

in New Ipswich. Oxford. Revivals in Leices- 
ter, Charlton and Dudley, ... - 224 

CHAPTER XIII. 
Revival in Oxford. Closing labors of Mrs. M. 
Sickness and triumphant death, - - 251 



ERRATA. 

Page 11, 25th line, for " 1839," read 1829. 

Page 98, 17th line, for " A. L." Fletcher, read D. L. 

Page 149, 15th line, omit " as." 

Page 156, 26th line, for " desires," read denies. 

Page 160, 20th line, omit « so." 



CHAPTEPv I. 



Elizabeth Ann Moulton, the subject of the 
following brief memoir, was the daughter of 
Thomas and Nancy Arnold, of Lunenburg, 
Massachusetts. Her parents are now living, 
and are both members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church in Fitchburg. They had four 
daughters, three of whom are now living with 
their husbands, all of whom are members of 
the household of faith. How great an instru- 
ment in the conversion of those three happy 
families, the subject of this memoir was, eter- 
nity alone can develope. I have no doubt, 
however, but all of them have blessed God for 
the prayers and instructions which they received 
from their lamented sister who agonized in fer- 
vent supplication for them until her lips were 
sealed in death. Perhaps no one ever labored 
more perseveringly, or felt more anxious for the 
salvation of parents and sisters, than did our 
departed friend. And when she had an evidence 
that all were born again, '' not of corruptible 
seed, but by the word of God," no one could 
1 



6 MEMOIR OF 

have felt a deeper sense of gratitude to God for 
his unspeakable goodness, in manifesting the 
riches of his grace to their undying spirits. 

The parents of Elizabeth adopted one daugh- 
ter into their family when very young, for whose 
temporal and spiritual interests, Elizabeth felt 
as much solicitude, as she did for any member 
of the family, and for whom she prayed and 
agonized until death w^as swallowed up in vic- 
tory. When she died, this sister deeply felt 
that she had lost the most faithful friend to the 
interests of her soul, as the following extract of 
a letter, dated May, 1844, will show : — "I can 
truly say that I never knew a person of whose 
piety I had a more exalted opinion. 1 think, 
should her life be faithfully recorded, it would 
fill a volume. The many times she has en- 
treated me with prayers and tears, to seek the 
Lord, are deeply engraved on my memory. I 
feel myself truly unworthy of all the kindness 
which she has manifested towards me. She 
said to me, about the last time she was here, 
* Dear Louisa! I think you and Br. Darling are 
not far from the kingdom — I have prayed a 
great many times for you of late, and have had 
some evidence that you would come out on the 
Lord's side.' I hope her prayers will be an- 
swered, for I know that if lost at last, it will be 
owing to my own hard and impenitent heart, as 
she has faithfully done her duty." 

Her parents were respectable, and bad a high 
sense of what the world calls good morals, but ^ 



ELIZABETH AX.V MOULTOX. 7 

neither of them knew any thing of the power of 
godliness until some time after Elizabeth and 
her eldest sister had experienced religion ; con- 
sequently they only taught their daughters to fear 
that Being who made them ; to keep the Sabbath 
holy, and reverence the institutions of religion, 
as they had been taught them by the Unitarian 
creed. But now having the eyes of their un- 
derstanding enlightened, and their hearts reno- 
vated by the power of the Holy Ghost, they not 
only have an outward form of speculative 
morals, but are contending for the power of 
godliness, and, I trust, if faithful to God a few 
more revolving days, they will unite with their 
daughter in heaven, in chanting the notes of 
redeeming praise to God and the Lamb, forever 
and ever. 

Elizabeth was born in Braintree, Massachu- 
setts, May 29th, 1804. She gave early proof 
of firmness and decision of character ; of per- 
severance in whatever she undertook ; and of 
an active and zealous disposition. 

When but a few years old, she was very badly 
scalded with hot water, and so deeply was she 
afflicted with this burn, that her parents for 
some time despaired of her life ; the indelible 
marks of which went down with her into the 
grave. 

The spirit of God strove with her, at an early 
period, and taught her that she was a sinner 
and must go to hell unless converted. Un- 
doubtedly the spirit of God does often strive 



8 MEMOIR OF 

with little children, at the first dawn of human 
reason ; and its blessed influence is almost as 
often grieved away, for the want of proper in- 
struction and encouragement at this tender age. 
The following is an account of the moving in- 
fluences of the Holy Spirit upon her heart, in 
her own words : — " When a child, at the early 
age of six years, I can well remember, that the 
Spirit of God strove with me, and I felt the 
effects ®f a wicked and depraved heart. And 
many times, at that early period of my life, I 
formed resolutions to be a better child, and to 
seek the Lord. I was taught by my parents to 
reverence that Being, who is the Author of my 
existence, and the Preserver of my life : but my 
mind was, as are the minds of many at the pre- 
sent day, easily drawn aside by the alluring 
scenes of earth, and the folly of childhood. 
Thus I lived in the neglect of my soul's salva- 
tion, indulging myself in sinning against light 
and knowledge, until I arrived at the age of 
sixteen years. 

" I lived in a town where the pure principles 
of religion were but very little regarded at that 
time. The people appeared by their lives and 
conduct to say, we are ' rich and increased in 
goods, and have need of nothing.' But at 
length, the Lord was pleased to send into this 
town one of his servants, whom I went to hear 
preach. I immediately /e/# the truths which he 
advanced, for his words were like daggers, 
piercing my heart. But, at this time, pride had 



jELIZABEtH ANN MOULTON. 9 

taken such deep root in my heart, that I found 
it a hard matter to yield, or acknowledge my- 
self a sinner, or even to sacrifice my little all 
for the religion of Jesus Christ. Being, how- 
ever, fully convinced that to persist and live in 
sin would be ruinous, I formed the resolution 
to leave the vanities of the world and seek an 
interest in the Savior. At last, through many 
obstructions, I was enabled to submit and throw 
myself on the mercy of God, and then I found 
the word of God to be true which says, ' they 
that seek me early shall find me.' " 

Is there any period in human life when the 
world presents more charms to the youthful 
mind, than at the age of sixteen years 1 Just 
stepping forth into the gay and active circles of 
life, the world in all its diversified dress, pre- 
sents a thousand pleasing and alluring aspects. 
The love of the world, its vain amusements, 
honors, and pleasures, at this age, deceive its 
multitudes, and lead them on in the anticipa- 
tions of future bliss. When lo ! a gnawing 
worm at the root, suddenly despoils them of 
their foretasted pleasure, and causes them to 
cry out in the evil day, " how have I hated in- 
struction, and my heart despised reproof" On 
the other hand, how interesting to the pious 
mind, to contemplate the few, but beautiful ex- 
amples of those who, in all the vigor of youth, 
are inquiring after wisdom ; counting the cost 
of living in sin ; renouncing this vain world, 
with all its flatteries and anticipated pleasures j 
*1 



10 MEMOIR OF 

resolving, in the strength of God, to turn to 
Zion ; taking the cross of Christ, and follow- 
ing him through evil as well as good report. 
How Christ-like to see the youth, with the armor 
on, wrestling not only against flesh and blood, 
but against " principalities, against powers, 
against the rulers of the darkness of this world, 
and against spiritual wickedness in high places," 
in order to glorify God on earth, and gain a 
crown of life. It was at this interesting period 
of life, that Elizabeth Ann Arnold renounced 
the world, with all its pride and vanity, and 
gave her heart to God, for him to live and die. 
Having now but one sister to encourage her in 
her heavenly warfare, (her parents knowing no- 
thing of the power of godliness,) and vital 
piety being very unpopular in the town of Bol- 
ton, a storm of persecution broke out upon her, 
and the little band with which she united : but 
these things only stimulated her to give up all 
for Christ and his cross, fully believing that if 
she suffered with Christ on earth, she should 
reign with him in glory. The cup of repentance 
to her was a bitter cup, but being fixed in her 
purpose, she continued to pour forth her prayers 
to God in strong cries and tears, until deliver- 
ance came, and her darkness was turned into 
light. Her experience from the power of sin 
and Satan, unto God, was instantaneous, and as 
clear as a sunbeam at noon-day. Neither did 
slie rest satisfied long witli an evidence of jus- 
tifying grace, but pressed on after " the breadth, 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 11 

and length, and deptli, and height " of redeem- 
ing grace, that she might know the love of 
Christ which passeth knowledge — that she 
might be filled with all the fullness of God. 
Nor did she seek for the deep things of God in 
vain, for after contending with the devil and 
inbred sin about one year, she experienced the 
second blessing, called in the scriptures by the 
various terms, perfect love, holiness, sanctijica- 
tioji, a clean heart, &lc. 

This inestimable blessing she enjoyed in her 
heart and exemplified in her life, more than 
eighteen years, without wavering. She also 
taught it to others, both publicly and privately, 
wherever an opportunity presented, believing 
that she was under the most solemn obligations 
to let this great light shine. In this faith she 
lived and died, and is now undoubtedly enjoy- 
ing the blessed fruit of it in the Paradise of 
God. Believing her experience relating to the 
great work of justification and sanctification 
upon her heart truly scriptural, and that the 
perusal of it will be edifying to every anxious 
inquirer after truth, I will now transcribe a 
narration of it written by herself in May, 3839. 

" Having looked back upon my past life, and 
counted over the mercies and blessings of God, 
from the earliest period of my recollection up 
to the present time, I feel myself under an obli- 
gation to Ilim which duty calls me to perform. 
And may the God of all grace assist me ! At 
the age of sixteen years I was brought to see 



12 Memoir of 

myself again a sinner, ' wretched, and miserable, 
and poor, and blind, and naked 5' and very un- 
happy, as well as unholy. I had long sought 
for bliss in the gay scenes of life, and strove 
hard to be happy in them, but found it im- 
possible. At length, I commenced a life of 
prayer, and resolved that I would seek the Lord 
in good earnest. I therefore prayed and wept 
in secret places, and formed many resolutions 
to live a new life. But, alas ! how easily were 
they broken, when made in my own strength : 
for I soon gave way to the allurements of the 
world, and the evil propensities of my corrupt 
nature ; and as a consequence, guilt and con- 
demnation overwhelmed my troubled soul. I 
learned, by self-examination, that I was not 
willing to come out from the pleasures and 
practices of the world, and be separated from 
them ; neither was I willing to give up the 
companions of my youth for the sake of reli- 
gion. The world, the flesh, and the devil 
crowded into my mind like a flood ; and so great 
was my conflict, that I had no peace day nor 
night, when awake. I then thought too, as 
there was no denomination of christians in the 
town, except a small class of Methodist people, 
who were considered mean, and despised by 
the worldly professor, on account of their zeal 
and plainness of dress, that, if I should embrace 
religion, I should be liable to become one of 
them ; for if any new one even attended their 
meetings, and became thoughtful and serious, 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 13 

especially if discerned by their friends and ac- 
quaintance, they would at once say, that per- 
son has become a Methodist. The pride of 
my heart had risen to such a height, that I 
thought I could not be one of them. 

'* While possessing this state of feeling, in the 
month of September, 1824, I went to reside 
with a great uncle of mine, in the town of 
Hingham. My uncle was a man of very even 
temper, but knew nothing of the nature of vital 
piety ; neither did any of the family to my 
knowledge, as they said nothing in favor of it. 
Having now, therefore, no one to whom I could 
unbosom my feelings on the subject of religion, 
I kept my convictions all to myself, and began 
to pray more earnestly than ever that God 
would have mercy on my soul. Sometimes, I 
went into my chamber and fell down before 
God and wept and prayed, giving vent to my 
feelings in strong cries and tears, and would 
obtain some momentary relief occasionally, 
while pleading at the Throne of Grace. At 
such times I would resolve again, to live a bet- 
ter life than ever, and try to watch over all 
my words and actions. But unawares, the enemy 
of my soul would get the advantage of me, so 
that I would yield again to the natural incli- 
nations of my corrupt heart, and think that I 
was as bad as ever. I lived in this unhappy 
state, until the next March, when my father 
came, wishing me to return home. 

" I had previously determined to rehearse all 



14 MEMOIR OF 

my feelings to my eldest sister, who had ex- 
perienced religion about one year previous to 
this : but little did I realize what a treacherous 
and obstinate heart I had to contend with. 
Having returned home, I had no disposition to 
relate to her what I had suffered in my feelings, 
on account of my sins, while absent, but chose 
again to join with my old associates in levity 
and pride. Still the Spirit of God followed me 
from day to day, and so harrowed up ray feel- 
ings, that I dared not wholly neglect secret 
prayer. In this state I lived several months, 
then my convictions became so pungent, that 
they were discovered by my friends in my coun- 
tenance. Soon I was invited to go and hear 
the Methodists preach. I accepted the invita- 
tion, and went. I had, before this time, kept 
my convictions to myself, as I was ashamed to 
manifest them to the despised people of God ; 
but now, at the meeting, I was anxious to in- 
form them of the distress of mind and agony of 
soul, which I had so long kept concealed. 
When I told some of them that I was determined 
to seek the religion of Jesus, they invited me to 
attend a class-meeting, held at noon, during the 
intermission. After much persuasion, I con- 
sented. In this meeting my heart was over- 
whelmed with grief for my past sins, which 
were set in array before me. I burst forth into 
H flood of tears, and, so great was my grief, that 
I could not utter to them my desires. I re- 
turned home with a heavy heart, laden down 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 15 

with guilt and sin. I attended meeting again 
in the evening, but found no relief — my bur- 
den still pressing me down, so that when the 
meeting closed, I felt that I could not return 
until it was removed, but said nothing about 
my feelings to any one, until the preacher, Br. 
George Fairbanks, came and spoke to me, wish- 
ing to know if I truly desired religion ? I told 
him I did. He then asked me how long I had 
felt the importance of it. I told him, as nearly 
as I could, what my feelings had been for several 
months past. The brethren then tarried and 
prayed for me. After this I requested the class 
to remember my case before the Throne of 
Grace, and returned home, as I came, without 
any relief in my mind. The next morning I 
went to my closet, shut to the door, and bowing 
before the Lord, and giving myself to him, I 
resigned my all into his hands, for him to live 
and die. At that moment, light broke into my 
soul. My burden left me, and a voice said unto 
me, * Thy sins, which are many, are all forgiven 
thee.' O what love immediately sprung up in 
my heart ! Joy unspeakable filled my ravished 
soul ! I now left my closet and went to work, 
and truly did I feel that heaven was reconciled 
to me. I said nothing to any one until my 
eldest sister came up stairs, and said, ' Eliza- 
beth, how do you now feel in your mind V I 
told her that the Lord had pardoned all my 
sins, and she rejoiced with me. Lydia, know- 
ing what my state of mind had been for some 



16 MEMOIR OF 

time past, felt to sympathise deeply with me, as 
she had often prayed that God would have mercy 
on my soul. Notwithstanding my conversion was 
so clear, and my evidence of it so bright, Lydia 
leaving home to visit a friend, the very day the 
Lord converted my soul, I was soon tempted, 
and began to doubt whether I had been truly 
converted to God. Satan, that arch enemy, 
who goes ' up and down the earth' to deceive 
the people, strove with me, desiring to sift me 
as wheat ; and not being acquainted with his de- 
vices, and having no one to instruct me, my mind 
was brought into darkness, and I almost gave up 
all hope of ever being happy again. I thought, 
however, that I would not leave off praying, and 
therefore resorted to the Throne of Grace, all 
weighed down with doubts and fears. That 
God who converted my ,soul, again appeared to 
my relief: my doubts and fears were removed, 
and I again rejoiced in the God of my salvation. 
And from that time to the present, I have never 
doubted my true conversion to God. It was 
soon noised abroad that I was a Methodist, and 
that was not a false report in the least. Al- 
though I had not then joined them, yet my 
heart was with them, and as soon as an oppor- 
tunity presented, I offered myself to the church 
to join on trial for six months; for this step I 
have ever felt grateful to God. I now felt that 
this people was my people, their God my God, 
and with them I resolved to live and die. 

"I soon learned that the christians life was 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 17 

a warfare, and if I would reign with Christ in 
glory, I must fight and endure hardness as a 
good soldier of Jesus Christ, while combating 
with foes without and foes within. A know- 
ledge of these enemies led me to see that 1 must 
put my trust in God alone. I tried to do my 
duty and testify of the goodness of God 
wherever an opportunity presented, and the 
Lord blessed me much in so doing. But I 
found that my foes within, or the evil corruptions 
of my degenerate heart, were more to be feared 
than those without. Pride and levity were my 
greatest besetting sins, and to check these un- 
holy principles, I found that I must come out 
from the world and be separated, and touch not, 
taste not, nor handle sin in any of its forms. 
My bible informed me also that I must be holy, 
or I could never see God's face in peace ; and 
while meditating on the importance of this ines- 
timable blessing of holiness, many passages of 
scripture which referred to this blessing, oc- 
curred to my mind ; such as follows : — ' This is 
the will of God, even your sanctification.' 'And 
the very God of peace sanctify you wholly : and 
I pray God your whole spirit and soul, and body, 
may be preserved blameless unto the coming of 
our Lord Jesus Christ.' * Rejoice ever more. 
Pray without ceasing. In every thing give 
thanks ; for this is the will of God in Christ 
Jesus concerning you.' ' Be ye therefore per- 
fect, even as your Father which is in heaven is 
perfect.' *' Blessed are the pure in heart : for 
2 



18 MEMOIR OF 

they shall see God.' ' Thou shall love the Lord 
thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy 
soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy 
strength — and thy neighbor as thyself.' I was 
then rationally convinced that the blessing of 
holiness, or perfect love, was attainable in this 
life, and I strove to seek it. — Sometimes my 
convictions were so deep, that it seemed to me, 
I could not live; another day without the enjoy- 
ment of it, and at other times my mind wan- 
dered from the subject, and was so far drawn off 
by worldly objects that my conviction for it, ap- 
peared to have left me for a season. Not being 
satisfied with what I now enjoyed, 1 began to 
examine myself, and found that my faiUi was 
weak, often doubting whether such a great 
blessing could be obtained by such an unworthy a- 
worm as myself 

'' Thus I lived, day after day, and month 
after month, until more than one year had ex- 
pired from the time of my conversion. Then, 
by the assistance of my heavenly Father, I was 
so enabled to seek as to find that blessing, which 
I had so long desired. My experience in ob- 
taining this state of grace I will now try to re- 
late. September 25th, 1824, Br. J. Perkins 
came to our dwelling to visit the family. He 
soon began to question me concerning the great 
blessing of holiness. At this time my mind' was 
not so powerfully exercised with regard to it as 
it had previously been. But as he began to ex- 
postulate with me to seek for the blessing with 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 19 

all my heart, and to seek it now, my mind was 
powerfully exercised about my own state, and I 
felt more than ever the necessity of making a 
full surrender, and of having my sinful propen- 
sities no longer existing in my heart. After 
Br. Perkins had retired from the house, I im- 
mediately resorted to a secret place. There I 
prayed and agonized with the Lord until my 
faith began lo increase. Then I believed the 
blessing of perfect love was in reserve for me, 
and also, that God was about to bestow it upon 
me. I wrestled, prayed, and yielded all np to 
him, relying upon the merits of Christ, with a 
sure trust in the cleansing power of the Holy 
Ghost. And the very moment I could realize 
that I had entirely given myself into his hands, 
firmly relying on the blood of sprinkling, the 
cloud broke, and peace and joy flowed into my 
soul like a river. I felt as 1 never had before, 
crying, Abba, Father ! my Lord and my God ! 
I stood for some moments, and praised God for 
his astonishing goodness, manifested to such a 
worm. I then returned to my work, saying 
nothing about this second blessing, — perfect 
love shed abroad in my heart — until an op- 
portunity presented itself to declare it to my 
sister; she being the only professor of religion 
in our family, except myself I related to her 
my new experience ; and my heart was imme- 
diately so filled with the love of God, that I 
could not, for some time, attend to my ordinary 
duties. I now truly felt that my sins were not 



2^ MEMOIR OF 



only blotted out, but that my heart was entirely 
c eansed from inbred corruption, and my soul 
filled with all the fullness of God. I was truly 
humbled under a sense of the mighty power of 
trod : and pride, which before this had been my 
greatest besetting sin, I now felt was rooted out 
Feiirs, however, soon began to trouble me, 
that I should not hold fast whereunto I had at- 
tained, but should lose this blessing. I thought 
too that It would have been better forme never 
to have experienced the blessing of full sal- 
vation, than to make shipwreck of this faith 
But amidst all these temptations of the enemy 
I realized that that God who had delivered my 
soul from the thraldom of sin, and perfected it 
111 love, was able to keep and preserve me blame- 
less unto the end, should I but trust in him as I 
ought. I lived in a peaceful state of mind for 
some time, almost as happy as I could be, and 
remain on these mortal shores. I felt that what 
i experienced in receiving the blessing of jus- 
tification, was only as a drop out of the ocean 
when compared with this blessed fullness im- 
parted to my enraptured soul. I now found that 
my confidence and faith in God were unwaver- 
ing. I was not at this time as easily moved by 
trifling things as I had been before. Thus I 
sailed along, week after week, and could sing 
with the Poet — ^ 

' Not a cloud did arise to darken my skies, 
Or hide for one moment the Lord from my eyes.' 



ELIZABETH ANN IVIOULTON. ^1 

"After a few weeks had elapsed, my trials 
began to be very severe, and my mind was in 
great heaviness through manifold temptations. 
In this state of mind, I resorted to a Throne of 
Grace as often as possible, and in answer to 
agonizing and fervent prayer, my heaviness left 
me : and so by degrees, my soul rising in 
triumph, grew more and more happy — inso- 
much that I could rejoice almost continually ; 
thus obeying the precepts of the Apostle, to 
' Rejoice evermore : Pray without ceasing, and 
in every thing give thanks ; for this is the will 
of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.' 1 
could also sins with the Poet — 



' Not a wave of trouble rolls 
Across my peaceful breast.' 



" Although four years have now elapsed since 
I experienced this great blessing of entire holi- 
ness, yet I trust, through the tender mercy of 
God, that I have never, for a moment, lost sight 
of it. It is now sweeter than music to hear it 
held forth as taught in the Bible, and conversed 
upon by the lovers of Jesus. May I never lose 
what I have gained ! but with holy courage, 
press after more and more of the fullness of 
God's unbounded love ; that I may know what 
it is ' to comprehend with all saints, what is the 
breadth, and length, and depth, and height of 
the love of God ;' that he may present me with 
♦2 



S2 MEMOIR. 

his glorious church — ' not having spot, of 
wrinkle, or any such thing;' ' to whom he 
glory, and majesty, dominion, and power, both 
now and ever. Amen.' " 



CHAPTER It 



Sanctification was the great theme otl 
which she best delighted to dwell through life^ 
On this rock she planted her feet with implicit 
faith in the atoning merits of Christ, and all 
the opposing powers of earth and hell, never 
moved her from this faith once delivered to the 
saints. She had undoubtedly more deeply and 
extensively explored, by faith, the unfathomable 
treasures of divine grace than most christians^ 
and consequently had large possessions of the 
unsearchable riches of Christ. On the nature 
of pardon — the evidence which accompanies 
it — the witness of the spirit, as well as the 
blessing of entire sanctification — the necessity 
of obtaining those precious and promised giftSj 
and the manner in which they were to be re- 
ceived, were subjects on which she delighted 
to improve, in all her exhortations and teach- 
ings. The whole plan of salvation by faith in 
Christ unfolded its beauties and glories to her 
understanding, in a mannef that surprised hun- 
dreds who listened to her instructions. 



24 MEMOIR OF 

Her sister Lydia, being a companion with 
her in her christian warfare, during her early 
pilcrrimage, informed me that she never partook 
of the vain amusements of the world, liko many 
of her age. To balls, pleasure parties, and 
novel reading, she was an entire stranger : still 
there was an aching void in her heart that the 
perishable things of earth could not satisfy. 
Many there are, who try to satisfy their immor- 
tal spirits with those phantoms which the world 
calls pleasure ; but in pursuit of them, they 
find them but painted bubbles on the wave^ 
which break at the first touch. And still 
thousands have become intoxicated with sen- 
sual pleasures and gratifications ; having their 
minds inflated with novel and deceptive read- 
ing, — becoming entirely disqualified to listen 
with profit to the sound of the gospel, — to read 
God's word with attention, or to meditate pray* 
erfully on those things that pertain to their 
peace. With none of these poisonous sins 
was the subject of this narrative afflicted. Her 
parents, although not pious, had carefully 
watched over their daughter's conduct, and 
had restrained her from polluting her mind 
with these wicked influences ; hence she was 
the better prepared to appreciate the infinite 
love of God in the gift of His soHj to a lost 
and perishing world, and to taste and see, for 
herself, that the Lord was good. 

"While under conviction, which weighed 
down her spirits for some tixTie, she made the 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 25 

Bible, and the Life of Hester Ann Rogers, her 
chief companiohs, as I learned of her sister, 
who, taking the deepest interest in her spiritual 
welfare, led her to the place where God's ser- 
vants were preaching *' good tidings unto the 
meek ; binding up the broken hearted ; pro- 
claiming liberty unto the captives, and the 
opening of the prison to them that are bound.'* 

It is an inestimable blessing to a poor peni- 
tent sinner, when his spirits are sinking under 
an intolerable load of guilt, to have a friend 
who careth for his soul, to pray for him, and 
lead him to Christ. Many have grieved away 
the Spirit, for the want of some friend to en- 
courage them, and are now in the broad way 
to destruction ; and many, it is to be feared, 
for the want of these human instrumentalities, 
are now beyond the reach of hope. 

Her sister said, " I saw nothing very special 
upon her mind until in the fall of 18*24, when, 
on my return from my frequented place of 
prayer, in a grove, which nearly overshadowed 
my father's dwelling ; I met Elizabeth with a 
Testament in her hand, coming out to join me 
in my devotion. We went back, and, after 
reading a portion of God's word, we fell upon 
our knees together for the first time ; she here 
offered up an earnest prayer to God for salva- 
tion ; and I never call that season to mind, but 
with the deepest sensations of joy. For several 
days after this, her mind was like the troubled 
ocean. The Bible and Mrs. Rogers now be- 



26 MEMOIR OF 

came her chief study. Soon after this we both 
went some distance to meeting, and so great 
was her distress, under the sermon of Br. Fair- 
banks, that she felt that the 'pangs of hell had 
got hold upon her,' and said to me, that she 
did not feel as thougfh she could get home. 
After the brethren and sisters had prayed for 
her at the evening meeting, we repaired home, 
retired to our bed-chamber and knelt before 
God. Never have I seen a more humble and 
penitent person than she was : the fountain of 
the great deep of her heart was all broken up. 
The next morning she arose, and soon informed 
me that she was happy in God, while her very 
looks, and actions, indicated a thorough change 
* from darkness to light, and from the power of 
sin and Satan unto God.' O what a blessed 
morning ! What a joyful hour ! My heart 
now beat higher for heaven than ever — my 
painful struggle for her salvation had ceased — 
we now walked hand in hand, taking sweet 
counsel together, possessing one hope, one 
heart, one mind, and one voice : it was heaven 
on earih begun !" 

These two sisters were inseparably joined in 
heart after their conversion, and their active 
piety was remarked, when young, in all the 
churches where they were known, — exhibited, 
as it was, in their zeal for souls — at camp meet- 
ings, quarterly meetings, and in the perform- 
ance of all their christian duties. They were 
the means of breaking down much of the pre- 



ELIZABETH ANxN MOULTON. 27 

judice which had long bound the female tongue 
in silence. 

I have thought proper to dwell longer in this 
memoir, on her experience, than is usual, hoping 
it will prove a blessing to many in whose hands 
it may fall, who, being deeply convinced of sin, 
are inquiring what they must do to be saved. 

Having experienced religion, and being de- 
termined to do every duty in the; fear of God, 
she united with the church on trial, and was 
baptized by Br. Hazelton, colleague of Br. 
Fairbanks, on Needham circuit. So contrary 
was this proceeding to the wishes of her pa- 
rents, who had been trained up in the Unitarian 
faith, that it brought out a little opposition 
against her from them. But this she endured 
with all that fortitude and perseverance which 
should ever characterize the saints of God ; 
who, under some circumstances, are called 
** to forsake houses, and brethren, and sisters, 
and fathers, and mothers, and wives, and chil- 
dren, for Christ's sake." Notwithstanding all 
that tender regard and parental affection which 
had ever marked her parents, while training 
their daughters in the practices of good morals, 
and in virtue's path, yet so contrary was the 
faith which their daughter had embraced, and 
designed, by the grace of God, to contend for, 
and persevere in, that it caused a division of 
sentiment in the family for a season, and their 
former harmony was somewhat interrupted. 
The Methodists at this time were held in utter 



28 MEMOIR OF 

contempt by most of the inhabitants in the town 
of Bolton, and, considering these circumstan- 
ces, it cannot be a subject of wonder that they 
wished to rescue their daughter from the sup- 
posed stigma, brought upon her by following 
these supposed fanatical preachers, who had 
come thither " to turn the world upside down." 
And what might have farther disturbed the 
feelings of the parents, was the fact of Eliza- 
beth's being so sanguine and persevering in her 
resolutions to serve the Lord, and doing every 
duty without consulting the feelings of her pa- 
rents : they very probably thought her obstinate 
and refractory. I think Elizabeth lamented, 
in after life, that she had not treated her pa- 
rents' restrictions in -religious matters, with 
more respect. I know not but she was always 
a dutiful child in all their requirements, except 
in her religious duties. In the performance of 
them, she always chose " to obey God rather 
than man," feeling that her obligations were 
infinitely higher to obey the laws of her Maker, 
than the laws of man, when they conflicted with 
each other. Her sister writes, touching these 
matters, as follows : — " Our parents taught us 
to regard the Sabbath, to avoid evil company, 
wishing us to be respectable in the world. But 
they, not participating in our joys, having not 
as yet escaped from the bondage of sin, nor be- 
lieving in our faith, caused storms of sorrow 
often to fall heavily upon us. But Elizabeth, 
like the rock in the midst of the tempestuous 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 29 

ocean, stood unmoved and unshaken through 
them all — continuing to adorn the doctrine of 
God her Savior, by attending to every known 
duty, while she lived in Bolton, — a period of 
about nine months after she obtained saving 
faith in the Lord Jesus Christ." .Thus choos- 
ing " rather to suffer afflictions with the people 
of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a 
season ; esteeming the reproaches of Christ 
greater riches than the treasures of Egypt ; for 
she had respect unto the recompense of re- 
ward." While she remained in Bolton, she at- 
tended meeting on the Sabbath in Marlboro' 
and Harvard^ where they enjoyed circuit preach- 
ing and lectures — class and* prayer meetings 
were held in Bolton, which she attended. 

Some time after her conversion she acquired 
the trade of a tailoress, with sister Asenath 
Sawyer (now sister Fuller), who had come out 
and united with the little despised company of 
Methodists. This was a favorable opening of 
Providence for Elizabeth ; for she was now fa- 
vored with an opportunity of enjoying all the 
means of grace far and near, unmolested ; and 
also of exercising her gifts and talents to the 
best of her ability. Said this lady to me, in a 
letter, *' We had some persecution, but this only 
served to strengthen us. Elizabeth was very 
firm and persevering — I think that she was a 
very devoted christian, ever after she expe- 
rienced religion." Most persons who expe- 
rience religion when young, have seasons of 
3. 



30 MEMOIR or 

backsliding, but I think it may be said of her 
that she ever pressed forward " to the mark of 
the prize of her high calling which is in Christ 
Jesus." In the spring of 1825, the family 
moved to Lunenburg, where the parents now re- 
side. Elizabeth accompanied them and spent 
the summer and fall at home. Here she en- 
joyed the means of grace among her own peo- 
ple, by walking almost four miles to hear the 
gospel preached. She soon became much at- 
tached to the little flock, and they to her ; they 
cheered her on in her pilgrimage journey, amid 
all the little trials and difficulties, through which 
the Lord called her to pass. It was during the 
fall of this year, -that she experienced the bless- 
ing of entire sanctification, which opened in 
her mind such exalted views of the infinite 
goodness of God, that she looked back upon 
this e.xhibition of His mercy with the deepest 
interest, and with the most devout thankfulness 
to God, for his unspeakable gift, in communi- 
cating this priceless treasure to her heart. The 
joys of this blessing were so transporting that 
she often broke out in the language of the Poet, 
and sang — 

" I'm happy, I'm happy, O wonderous account, 
My joys are immortal — I stand on the Mount. 
I gaze on my treasure and long to be there, 
With Jesus and angels, my kindred so dear." 

This fall also her father experienced a pardon 
of his sins, and united with the Congregational 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 31 

Church in Fitchburg. Probably he was con- 
verted in answer to the many prayers of his two 
oldest daughters, who had made their parents 
the special subjects of their prayers, ever after 
God had converted their souls. These two new- 
manifestations of God's unbounded goodness ^— 
the conversion of her father, and the sanctifica- 
tion of her own soul, were themes to which she 
ever referred with great delight. And these 
manifestations of divine grace which were given 
in answer to prayer, encouraged her to believe 
that God would convert the whole family, in an- 
swer to the prayer of faith. 

God having lit up the lamp of perfect love in 
her heart, she also felt encouraged to witness to 
a dying world, God's willingness to sanctify the 
church, that she might be " perfect and entire, 
wanting nothing, and be found without spot or 
wrinkle, or any such thing." She felt a high 
sense of duty devolving on her to extend the in- 
fluence of this great light as far as the provi- 
dence of God should permit. The winter fol- 
lowing she returned to Bolton and finished 
learning her trade, and returned home again the 
next summer. To show the estimation in which 
she was held at Bolton, this incident may be 
noticed. When about to take her final leave of 
this place, one brother of the cliurch said, " If 
sister Arnold leaves us, our little class will go 
down." After her return, said her sister, 
" Once more was I favored with her society : 
over hills and through pastures green, did we 



32 MEMOIR OF 

often make our way to the old Meeting-house 
in Lunenburg, and many were the delightful 
seasons that we enjoyed in that house of prayer. 
I think none can say, with whom she was ac- 
quainted, but that her's was a life deeply de- 
voted to God. Although she had some sore 
conflicts with the enemy, who hurled against 
her his fiery darts, as he ever does at the faith- 
ful child of God ; yet in the strength of Jesus — 
the captain of her salvation — she boldly and 
perseveringly pursued her journey onward to- 
wards the haven of her eternal repose." 

Elizabeth remained at home and in the 
vicinity, this time, almost two years, working at 
her trade from place to place, attending upon 
all the means of grace, and recommending the 
great salvation which she so fully enjoyed, to 
all around. Being among different denomina- 
tions of christians, she had often to contend 
with those who violently opposed the doctrine of 
holiness, believing it impossible to live in this 
state of probation without committing sin ; but 
she held on in the even tenor of her way, not 
however, without hearing jeers and derisions, as 
being perfect, living witliout sin, &lc. But 
during these two years, she got a strong hold on 
the feelings and sympathies of the community, 
and so popular was her talent for exhortation, 
that the orthodox deacons, in some places, 
broke the bands which bound the female tongue 
in public meetings, and invited her — even 
going to her seat, and requesting her — to 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 33f 

Speak of the wonderful things of God. This 
course was very uncommon in those days, 
among that class of christians, who had been 
taught that it was a shame even for a woman tO' 
witness for God in public. 

She taught one or two small schools during' 
her stay at home this time. In the performance 
of this duty, she became very much interested 
in the welfare of children. This sentiment was 
deeply impressed upon her mind through life. 
Having been deeply convinced of sin at the ag& 
of six years, she believed early piety ought to- 
be inculcated among the youth. Some of her 
greatest struggles for the salvation of sinners, 
were for the youth. Often has she gone into the 
congregation and led these little lambs to the 
altar of prayer, and often too, has she been^ 
heard to rejoice over the conversion of these lit-- 
tie ones. In the language of the Savior has she 
frequently cried, " Suifer little children to come 
unto me, a.nd forbid them not, for of such is the 
kingdom of God." Rev, Joel Knight taught 
school in Lunenburg while Elizabeth was at 
home, and had a precious revival in his school,- 
and out of it. This was a very interesting time- 
to Eliz'abeth, who was ready to co-operate with 
him, and the church, in promoting a work which 
resulted in the salvation of many souls. 

Elizabeth had a number of correspondents at 
this period of her history, to whom she fre- 
quently wrote, but none of her letters were pre- 
served as I can learn. Her sister Lydia, to 
•3 



84 Memoir of 

whom she often wrote, and to whom she un* 
bosomed all her feelings and trials, has not pre- 
served her letters or writings. This fact I 
deeply regret, as I expected to find much of her 
experience in this sister's possession, which 
would have greatly enriched this little volume. 
The want of materials from this source, caused 
me to abandon for months the idea of writing 
out this memoir. But as Lydia spent much 
time with her at home and abroad, from the 
time she experienced religion until she was 
married, and as she kept a journal of her own 
life, noting down the most important facts which 
occurred when with her sister, and as she has 
kindly forwarded them to me in a letter, with 
liberty to make what use of them I may think 
proper, after much prayer and meditation, v/ith 
great distrust of my ability to write a book for 
the public eye, I have concluded to proceedj 
and do the best that I can under the circum*- 
stances, hoping my well meant endeavors will 
not be altogether in vain. 

In the spring of 1828, the subject of this no- 
tice left again the parental roof and took up 
her residence in South Oxford, now Webster. 
The following is a sketch of it in her own lan- 
guage : — " In 1828, I removed to Oxford with a 
family of my acquaintance whom I dearly loved. 
There I formed a happy acquaintance with 
most of those who had recently experienced the 
love of God shed abroad in their hearts. They 
were lively and animated with zeal, but as only 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 35 

a few of them had been long in the way, they 
were not much established, and said but little 
on the subject of holiness, which I delighted so 
much to hear conversed upon ; therefore I 
knew not whether it would be prudent for me 
to say anything about it. Knowing, however, 
that the Lord always had blessed me when I 
spoke upon this subject, I endeavored to let my 
light shine here also, thinking possibly that 
others might be brought to partake of the same 
blessing ; and, blessed be God ! it was not in 
vain, for there have risen up many witnesses 
within about one year who can testify that the 
blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth from all sin» 
And there are many more who are seeking after 
this blessing, and it is my prayer that they may 
not rest till pure within." 

Had she yielded to temptation, refusing to 
bear this cross, and reasoned with flesh and 
blood, saying nothing about this great work of 
grace in her soul, she would undoubtedly have 
been shorn of her strength, and entirely lost 
the blessing. God has never lighted up this 
flame of perfect love in our hearts to be covered 
under a bushel. Unless we consecrate all to 
God, and obey all his commandments, giving 
him glory for his rich mercies, we cannot long 
enjoy them. For if we are ashamed to confess 
His blessings before man, God will not think us 
fit subjects to retain them. But Elizabeth, re- 
solving to do her whole duty in the fear of God, 
leaving consequences with him, not only re- 



^ MEMOIR OF 

tained the evidence of sanctification in her own* 
soul, but was probably instrumental in the 
hands of God of leading many others to this in- 
exhaustible fountain of God's fullness. Br. 
Henry Davis, of Dudley, who is now a living^ 
witness of entire sanctification, employed Eliza- 
beth to work in his family a few days, when he 
was a bigoted Calvinist. He sharply contended 
with her against the doctrine of christian per- 
fection in this life, and plead strongly in defence 
of sin, in all believers, through life. Soon, how- 
ever, he was so powerfully convinced of his error 
by her scriptural arguments and christian de- 
portment, that he renounced his Calvinistic 
creed, moved his relation to the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church, experienced the power of this- 
second blessing upon his own soul, and is now 
one of the most efficient advocates for christian 
holiness, by his life and conversation. He ex- 
pressed to me, since the death of Elizabeth, 
that this change in him was brought about by 
the faithful labors, and consistent practice of 
Elizabeth Arnold. Since that event, his house- 
hold and house have been consecrated to God, 
and many souls have been converted to God 
under his roof. While the doctrine of holiness 
was spreading in Dudley, Br. Hezekiah Davis, 
since a popular local preacher, who was then a 
Congregationalist, having caught the sound of 
free and full salvation, came over with others of 
his brethren, and united with the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. Thus the leaven of holiness 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 37 

spread among the people of the different deno- 
minations. Her sister says again, "In my old 
manuscript of June 1, it is written : — Received 
a letter from my dear sister yesterday, which in- 
formed me that she is continually happy in the 
love of God ; that ' not one cloud does arise to 
darken her skies, or hide, for one moment, the 
Lord from her eyes.' We here see that she 
stood firm in the doctrine of sanctification. She 
informed me that when she first went to Web- 
ster, the little handful of Methodists in that 
place and Dudley, all met for class-meeting in 
one small room in Howard's Village." August 
3d, says Lydia, " Elizabeth writes that she in- 
tends to go to Northbridge camp-meeting, and 
then return home with me and visit her 
parents." Camp-meetings were a means of 
grace that she always enjoyed, and took much 
pains to attend. At these meetings, it was her 
object to seek out the penitent mourner and 
urge such to the altar of prayer, and to press 
the importance of entire sanctification upon the 
church ; in the performance of these duties, her 
own soul shared largely in the blessings of full 
redemption in the blood of the Lamb. After the 
camp-meeting closed, she made her proposed 
visit and returned again to Dudley, where she 
was at this time residing. Lydia writes, " A 
trying time indeed it was in parting with my 
dear sister. She started this morning for Dud- 
ley : I never saw her so ripe for heaven. We 
have agreed to read the same chapter daily, be- 



38 MEMOIR OF 

ginning at the first chapter in Romans. Here 
we see how this valiant child of grace run the 
race set before her in the gospel. She seemed 
to tarry for nothing." 

During this year she persuaded her sister 
Lucy, younger than herself, to go to Dudley, 
board with her, and go to school in the Aca- 
demy ; contributing what little her means would 
permit for her benefit. She always considered it 
more blessed to give, or do a favor, than to re- 
ceive one. Lucy will ever have reason to bless 
God, and gratefully remember her sister, for that 
solicitude she manifested for her temporal and 
spiritual welfare. It was during her stay at this' 
school, that the first bud of grace sprung up in 
her heart. Lucy could not be made to believe 
that she experienced religion here, until some 
years after this, when the Lord appeared to her, 
and her husband a second time ; then she dated 
back her experience to the time when in Dud- 
ley, under the care of Elizabeth. Elizabeth 
worked at her trade during the year, excepting 
when she would take time to attend upon the 
more public means of grace, on every part of 
the circuit. This year the work of God revived 
powerfully under the faithful labors of the ser- 
vants of God, who then preached the gosper 
there. The first letter from her pen, of which 
I have any knowledge, is the following. And 
here I would say again, this is the only letter 
preserved by her sister during a correspondence 
of almost twenty years. This is to be the 



I^.LIZABETH ANN, MOULTON. 39 

more regretted, as their correspondence was 
almost exclusively upon religious subjects, con- 
taining the exercises of their minds, trials, pro- 
gress in holiness, &c. 

'' Dudley, July 13, 1829. 
" Dear Lydia, — Once more I am permitted 
to use my pen in order to write you a few lines. 
As it is now ten o'clock in the evening. I must 
be brief in what I write; and may the Lord 
help me ' Since I received your last epistle, I 
have been striving to serve God with my whole 
heart, and yet, I leel jny short comings from 
day to day. For about two weeks past, my 
soul has been drinking deeper and deeper into 
that ocean or fountain of love, which has nei- 
ther bottom nor shore. My peace I think has 
been more constant recently, than ever before. 
My evidence is still bright, and the prospect of 
heaven oft-times heaves in view. I am saved 
from needle- s anxiety, and can believe in God's 
promises easier, and trust in the merits of 
Christ with a firmer reliance than fonyierly. I 
do believe, if faithful, I shall bloom in the para- 
dise of heaven. Transporting thought, sister ! 
Last evening our meeting was attended with di- 
vine power : it was a class-meeting. Two un- 
converted attended, and their hearts were 
melted ; one of them we trust found peace in 
believing before the meeting closed — we hope 
the other soon will. May God move on the 
wqrk, and sinners be born into the kingdom of 



40 MEMOIR OF 

Christ this year. We have four good, faithful 
preachers on the circuit this year. My sister 
Lucy will tell you all about them. A Sabbath 
school will soon be established here, and we 
hope it will be crowned with lasting good. 
May the spirit of the Eternal God rest on all 
our undertakings and efforts to do good to Is- 
rael ! I would now inquire relative to the pros- 
perity of your soul. I trust you are still moving 
upwards, towards heaven — O live faithful and 
follow on to know the Lord, and you shall 
know his goings are prepared as the morning. 
No doubt you have been expecting the salvation 
of some of our friends, but as yet, have not had 
your expectations realized. But my dear sis- 
ter, God is faithful and powerful, to impart His 
blessings to all that believe in His name. I 
want you to continue to pray for our friends 
and fellow mortals. O when I realize the worth 
of an immortal spirit, which must run parallel 
with eternity, I am astonished that I am no 
more fervent in prayer, and no more engaged 
for the salvation of precious blood-bought and 
eternity-bound souls. Still I think almost 
every day witnesses my greater deadness to the 
world and all things below the skies. I am try- 
ing to be prepared for the day of trial, when the 
cold hand of death shall grasp this mortal lump 
of clay, that my immortal spirit may take its 
flight to the regions of the blessed. Yes, I this 
moment feel, (although unworthy, yet very 
happy,) that my inheritance is incorruptible^ 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 41 

undefiled, and will never fade away. The time 
has now come that I must part with my dear 
sister Lucy : it is hard, but I hope it will be for 
the best. We have taken great delight in each 
other's society since she came to Dudley. We 
have walked to the house of God together, from 
time to time ; have heard the gospel preached 
in its power and purity, and I trust we have 
both profited thereby. May God seal instruc- 
tion to our hearts that we may so live on earth, 
that if we meet no more below, we may meet 
in heaven. My heart is penetrated at the thought. 
Farewell! — be faithful, and declare a full sal- 
vation to all around. May God speed you on in 
your heavenly journey. Yours, in the best of 
bonds, E. A. Arnold." 

She wrote the following letter to her mother : 

" Dudley, August 14, 1829. 
*' Dear Mother, — I now sit down to write you 
a few lines, to let you know that I am in good 
health and in a state of prosperity. Doubtless 
you have been expecting me home ever since 
Lucy returned ; but I would say, that I have 
now concluded to wait until after our camp- 
meeting at Pomfret, which commences in two 
weeks from yesterday. Please invite, from me, 
some of the brethren and sisters of Lunenburg, 
to come to this meeting ; as it will be but little 
farther for them, than to go to the Woodstock 
camp-meeting. * * * * j have not much 
4 



42 MEMOIR. 

news to write, except that religion flourishes 
among us, and around us, on the circuit. In a 
town joining this, a glorious revival has com- 
menced. I heard Br. Hyde, our Presiding 
Elder, say that in one little village, in that place, 
the people were all converted to God. Glorious 
news, indeed ! What, my dear mother, is more 
heart-cheering than to hear that sinners are 
coming home to God ? I still have it in my 
heart to tell you that I love the Lord in all his 
ways. I delight in his service, and feel deter- 
mined to land my soul in the happy abode of 
the blest, O my dear mother ! time is short, 
and what we do, we must do quickly. We are 
hastening to a long and fathomless eternity. It 
therefore becomes you and I, as rational and 
intelligent creatures, to be ready, and prepared 
to go forth and meet the Bridegroom. May 
God Almighty help us ! Farewell. Respect- 
fully, Elizabeth." 



CHAPTER III. 



After the Pomfret ctiinp-meeting closed, 
she returned home again to visit her friends in 
Lunenburg. She always made it a rule, to 
visit her parents once or twice a year, however 
far she might be separated from them. She 
felt a deep solicitude for their spiritual and 
temporal welfare ; and could not be denied the 
privilege of seeing them, as often as prac- 
ticable, that she might render them some as- 
sistance, if possible, in their progress towards 
heaven. During this visit she persuaded Lydia, 
her eldest sister, to accompany her to Dudley, 
and learn with her the trade she had herself 
chosen. October C, Elizabeth and her sister 
both went to Dudley, and made it their home, 
in the family of Br. Dwight ; and very highly 
did Elizabeth always speak of the piety and 
good regulation of his family — from which 
have risen two Methodist Preachers, and one 
Preacher's wife. Lydia writes — "I found a 
good socie y of well engaged Methodists, and 
some sanctified souls amonsf them. There vvJia 



44 -AiEMOIR OF 

not, at this time, much stir among the wicked ; 
but the cry for holiness was intense. Here I 
found sister Elizabeth woven into the affections 
of this dear society. We went from place ta 
place to work, and I noticed all the movements 
of my sister: and many a time did I hear her 
pleading with the sinner to turn to God and 
live, holding up to their minds the loveliness of 
Jesus. She ever seemed in earnest to accom- 
plish what good she could. Although her cares 
were sometimes very perplexing, yet they never 
appeared to disturb that heavenly blessedness 
within. In December there was an appearance 
of a revival again in Dudley." January 10, I 
find written : '* Just returned from Thompson, 
in Connecticut, where we resided about four 
weeks. It was a refreshing time. Here my 
sister labored faithfully for the salvation of 
perishing souls. We had some powerful dis- 
plays of God's saving mercy. The people in 
Masonville, and in a place called Mount Hun- 
ger, should these lines ever fall into their 
hands, will call to mind the pious efforts of 
Elizabeth. She never appeared to be weary in 
well doing, but with heaven in view, pressed 
her way onward through every obstruction. It 
now being more convenient for our work, we 
changed our boarding-place from Br. Dwight's, 
who lived in the centre of the town, to the Ma- 
rino village, in the east part of the town. This 
village stands on the west side of a small river 
■which separates it from Webster. Here, for 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 45 

some time, the gathering cloud of meity had 
hung over the people, but it was now to break 
upon them ; the stubborn heart was penetrated 
with the Spirit of God. Here my sister did not 
fail to exert every power and faculty of her 
soul for the good of others. Nor did she con- 
fine her efforts to the perishing sinner ; but the 
sick and the dying, and the poor of this world, 
shared a portion of her sympathies, so far as 
means and time would permit. So kind and 
sympathetic was she among the distressed of 
every class, that I have heard it said of her, 
* Elizabeth will never want any good thing.' " 
No person with whom I was ever acquainted, 
had greater sympathy for the poor, the sick, 
and the dying, than she had. A poor beggar 
was never turned away from her door hungry, 
neither were the sick and dying ever neglected 
by her, so far as it was in her power to com- 
fort and assist them. So conversant had she 
become with the sick in her latter days, and 
with the nature of some diseases, that her 
counsel was sought for, in difficult cases. Her 
remedies were mild medicines, with strong 
faith and ardent prayer. I think it will be em- 
phatically said of her in the judgment of the 
great day, " Come unto me ye blessed, &-c. ; for 
I was hungry and ye gave me meat, naked and 
ye clothed me, sick and ye visited me," &c. 
January 27, 1830. — Lydia continues : " Just 
returned from West Woodstock to the Marino 
village again. We have been absent two week* 
•4 



46 MEMOIR OF 

— such glorious displays of God's power, I 
have never seen before. Sinners on every hand 
are coming to Christ for mercy. The tears 
of the penitent flow plentifully. Twenty-six 
scholars in Br. H.'s school, have already given 
their hearts to Christ. They cling around 
Elizabeth and myself, as if loth to let us go, 
O may we meet these lambs in that better land. 
Here my dear sister waxed valiant in fight. 
The congregations not being accustomed to 
hear females improve in public, listened again 
and again, with the deepest attention to her 
powerful exhortations, songs, and prayers. No- 
thing seemed to be left undone by her which 
she could do; having strong confidence in God, 
and a holy boldness, she never fainted by the 
way." Feb. 8, — The work of God is reviving 
all around us. There is such an outpouring of 
the Holy Spirit, that we have a meeting some- 
where every night. In Dudley, fourteen rose 
for prayers last night, and the number soon in- 
creased to about fifty. My sister took a deep 
interest in this revival and a very active part. 
The welfare of the rising generation was much 
impressed upon her mind. The Sabbath school 
scholars, especially at Dudley, cannot forget 
her unwearied exertions for their spiritual and 
everlasting good. In March, April and May, 
she kept up the good fight of faith, and many 
were the precious seasons of grace which she 
enjoyed." January 31, 1830, Elizabeth wrote 
home as follows : 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 47 

" My dear Parents^ — I expect, by this time, 
you are almost impatient to hear from us. We 
are in good health, and at present, prosperity 
is our happy lot and portion. We have left our 
former boarding place, and now live in the Ma- 
rino village, in the family of Br. Pachen. This 
is a more central place for my business. * * 
* * * I now come to the most important 
part of the news. The Lord is reviving his 
work among us most gloriously. Sinners are 
coming and embracing the truth as it is in 
Jesus, from almost every village. Yes, my ears 
have been saluted to-day with the sound of 
new-born souls. We have been to Oxford the 
week past, and have just returned to hear what 
God has wrought among the people during the 
week. There is now but little opposition to 
the revival, and the work is rapidly spreading 
through the place. I expect what has been 
done is but a prelude to a great and glorious 
shower. The penitent sinners are groaning 
under the burden of sin, while saints are re- 
joicing in the God of their salvation. I have 
been at Woodstock to work. About 50 souls 
in that place have been recently translated from 
darkness to light, and are now happy in God's 
pardoning love ; and I heard to-day, by Br. Sa- 
bin, that it appeared as if the work had but 
just begun. The tall oaks of Bashan are bow- 
ing : the North is giving up, and the South is 
not keeping back. It is God's work, and it is 
marvellous in our eyes. We live in an age 



48 MEMOIR Of 

when the gospel is preached in purity, and at^ 
tended with power. Who can stand against 
such light and knowledge, and not yield to the 
dictates of the Holy Spirit? Dear father and 
mother, I view the religion of Jesus as my 
greatest consolation. Although surrounded 
with the comforts of life, and prospered in my 
temporal concerns, yet they do not draw my 
affections away from Him who is the Author of 
them all. I do realize that God is good to us, 
and that he orders our way for us in a miracu- 
lous manner. I have many solemn reflections, 
thinking it possible we may never meet again, 
on the shores of time. Life is uncertain, and you, 
my dear parents, are gliding down the stream of 
time, and must soon be called to try the reali- 
ties of death, and an unbounded eternity. 
Though we, your children, are young, yet how 
often is the flower of youth blasted, and their 
fond expectations cut off by an early grave. I 
believe it is natural for parents to feel a greater 
anxiety for their children, than children can 
feel for their parents. Doubtless this is the 
case with you ; but I hope you will borrow no 
needless anxiety about us, for we are blessed 
with friends all around, and what is best of all, 
Jesus, the sinner's friend, is our friend, and one 
* that sticketh closer than a brother.' I am as 
much determined to stand fast in the liberty 
wherewith Christ has made me free as ever. I 
know of no idol in my heart. I know of no* 
thing so delightful as religion, and I do not,. 



ELIZABETH AJTJV MOULTON. 49^ 

neither have I ever lamented, that in early life 
I sought my Savior. How many snares I might 
have fallen into; ere this period of my life ! I 
might have caused you to mourn, and to wish 
that I had never been born, had not the princi- 
ples of religion early imbued my heart. Since 
I commenced this epistle, I have attended meet- 
ing, and a man of much influence, who has 
been groaning under an intolerable load of sin 
during the week past, was set at liberty, and 
seven more rose for the prayers of the church. 
The work of God is going on powerfully here. 
I really wish you would come and see for 
yourselves, for I cannot tell you one half O 
my dear father and mother ! do you not delight 
to hear such glorious news ? and are you not 
striving to trim your own lamps, and fill them 
with oil, lest they should go out? 1 humbly 
hope you are. God has spared your lives many 
years, and crowned them with many blessings ; 
and I pray that, in return, you may give your 
hearts, without reserve, to Him, and so live the 
remainder of your days, as that you may bring 
honor and glory to His name, and receive that 
enjoyment which constantly flows from be- 
lieving in his promises. O may your last days 
be your best days, and may you at last come 
down to the grave rejoicing, having a well- 
grounded hope of immortality beyond the 
grave. Here I must close, hoping these lines 
will find you enjoying good health and pros- 
perity. Lydia and myself wish to be remem- 



50 MEXOIH OF 

bered to all our friends. She enjoys her mmd 
well, and so do I, and we ever remain your af- 
fectionate children in the tlesh, 

** E. A. Arxolp. " 



She wrote the following letter to her sister 
Lucv : 

" Diin.VY. April 4. 1S80. 

** Ever dear anii njrcctionatc Sister, — Once 
more, through the blessing of God, I am per- 
mitted to use my pen to write to you: being yet 
alive. I love to praise God and obey his divine 
requirements. Yes, my dear Lucy, religion is 
still my untiring theme. O how 1 love the way 
that leads to life and happiness, and glory be- 
yond the grave. Did I say beyond it ? yes, and 
this side too ! I think I never enjoyed so much 
of the divine presence o( God as 1 have during 
the last week. Although our lot, when ttv 
gether, was cast in a place remote from the vil- 
lages, yet God, of a truth, did bless and com- 
fort our hearts. Last evening, we came home 
and attended a class-meeting at Br. H. Davis's; 
and it IS in vain for me to describe to you the 
glory and peace which 1 felt at that meeting, 
and do still feel burning in my undoubting 
heart. O my dear Lucy, 1 love your soul, which 
is immortal and must run parallel with eter- 
nity, either in happiness or misery. It seems 
hard to be separated in this life, but how much 
harder to think o{ a tinal separation. The 



r.l,l7.AHKTII ANN MOll.rOX. 51 

(I road fill t/ioi,ii/it even, wlio c:iu eiuhire it ? 
All ! Imiuaii nature woiiKl shrink at tlie awlul 
iilea ! I sometimes t'eel so miioli lor my friends, 
who remain ih\stitute of reliorion, tliat I hartlly 
know what io do. It is not my o;reatest object 
to ijain the riehes of the worUl, but to try to 
possess durable riches, which cannot fade away. 
I often think oi' tlie many reliixious privileges 
whicli you enjoyed whik^ vvitli me lust year ; 
wliether improved or not, tliey are past and 
gone for ever. Since you left me, many of 
your young friends, with wliom you formed an 
acquaintance, have embraced the Savior, and 
are now happy in his love. Between torty and 
tit\y have united witli (nir society, since our last 
camp-meeting. This is God's work, and it is 
marvellous in our eyes. Ciod is moving in a 
mysterious and powerful manner in the town, 
and throughout the circuit. Almost every 
part of it, is visited witli reformation. Still 
there are many whose hearts are yet stubborn, 
and to all outward appearance, are saying, * I 
will not bow to his sceptre, nor yield to the in- 
vitations of the gospel.' O how 1 do rejoice that 
1 sought the Lord in the days of my youth. If 
faithful, dear Lucy, I expect to join the blood- 
washed millions in singing praises to God and 
the Lamb for ever and ever. Amen. Procas- 
tination /.>• (hunger a us. 

E. A. Arnold." 



52 MEMOIR OP 

The following is taken from her journal : 

April 4, 1830. — "O in what language can I 
praise God most acceptably, for that peace 
which I enjoy this morning. Truly I can say 
it is glory begun in my soul below. Never did 
I feel so completely lost to all below as at pre- 
sent. The world, with all its alluring charms, 
does not move me from the faith of the gospel ; 
neither do I count my life dear unto myself, so 
that I might finish my course with joy. O that 
sinners would learn to serve the Lord ! O that 
their eyes were opened to see their lost condi- 
tion ! Willingly would I fall at their feet, and 
pray to God in their behalf, would it avail any 
thing. O that this day would witness the dis- 
play of the great power of an omnipresent Jeho- 
vah in a glorious manner ! O how I long to be 
more conformed to the image of my Maker ! 
How much he has loved the world, even such 
a worm as myself: and shall I not give Him 
my heart ? Yea, I will, and have unreservedly 
given all for Christ. He is my all. I have no 
idol in my heart — Jesus, the hope of glory, is 
formed within me, and all is peace and love. 
May I never leave nor forsake him. 

May 3. — "This morning I feel God's love 
shed abroad in my heart. 6 that I may enjoy 
more this week, than ever before." 

May 10. — " The winter past has been a time 
of rejoicing among God's children. Through- 
out almost every part of the circuit, the people 



ELIZABETH AXN MOULTOX. 53 

have been visited with showers of divine mercy. 
Nearly three hundred souls have been hope- 
fully converted to God, and the work is still 
progressing. I have been in this place more 
than two years, and feel much attached to the 
people ; and when 1 think of what God has 
wrouorht for me, since I came here, I can hardly 
indulge the thought of leaving the place. I be- 
lieve God will direct me, that I may be led in 
the path of duty. 

May 15. — "This morning I feel that my heart 
is God's. O what shall I render to him for his 
forbearance and mercy towards such an un- 
worthy dust. Attended class-meeting at Br. 
Davis' last evening. The Lord is carrying on 
his work in the class. Many are desiring to 
possess clean hearts. O that they may exercise 
more faith in Christ's atoning blood ! I desire 
that the church may be made holy. Just re- 
ceived a letter from my dear sister Richardson, 
from Wilbraham. 

Sunday Morning. — " Through indisposition 
of body, I am not permitted to go to the house 
of worship, but my soul doth m3gnify the Lord ; 
feeling that God is omnipresent, and always 
willing to bless those who put their trust in 
Him. I always feel my spiritual strength re- 
newed, when I wait on Him as I ought. I find 
that in God is all that I need to make my hap- 
piness complete. After trying the vanities and 
amusements of the world, and striving to make 
myself happy in them, I found I was left with 
5 



54 MEMOIR OF 

nothing but an aching void, which the world, 
with all its fascinating charms, could not fill. 
I at length formed a resolution to seek my 
bliss in the all-atoning blood of my Redeemer. 
I sought with tears, night and day, for weeks 
and months, and did not seek in vain ; for God 
came to my relief, and whispered I was his. I 
then could 

' read my title clear 

To mansions in the skies, 
Could bid farewell to every fear, 

And wipe my weeping eyes.' 

And although more than five years have ex- 
pired since that period, yet never have I had 
one desire to turn acrain to the weak and be^- 
garly elements of the world. But I have had to 
lament my little proficiency in this good cause. 
I realize that there is no standing still in re- 
ligion. We are either progressing forward in 
grace and knowledge, or retrograding back to 
our former state. How important then to watch 
and pray, lest we, losing our confidence in 
God, and drinking into the spirit of the world, 
by small degrees, lose all our enjoyment in 
religion, and at last lie down in everlasting 
sorrow and woe, to dwell with hypocrites and 
unbelievers. 

June 10. — "I am once more permitted to re- 
turn home and enjoy the society of my parents 
and sisters. But oh ! I behold some of them 
without God and without hope in the world ! 



ELIZABETH A>--X MOULTO.'T. 55 

when will the time come, that I shall see them 
happy in the Lord : knowing the joys of par- 
doned sin I I long for the happy period to ar- 
rive. O that my prayers for them, during six 
years past, may not be altogether in vain. God 
and myself only know what struggles, and secret 
groans, I have endured for them, since the 
Lord converted my soul. 

July 23. — "Many solemn reflections arise in 
my mind this morning, from what has tran- 
spired this week in my father's house. One of 
our aged friends, who had lived in my father's 
dwelling five years, has gone to try the realities 
of the eternal world. How ought this Provi- 
dence suitably to affect my heart, and teach me 
that I may be soon called to die. O that this 
death may so deeply affect my heart, as that it 
may bring me nearer and nearer to God ; that 

1 may enjoy m.ore and more of the divine full- 
ness, and be the better prepared to exchange 
worlds I"' 

I will here transcribe the last extract from 
her sister's letter, sent to me ; being copied and 
corrected from her journal, while thej were 
together. 

August 25. — " In company with one of our 
neighbors, we started again for Dudley. It was 
hard parting with our parents. We arrived in 
the evening. After one night's rest, we went 
to Woodstock camp-meeting : there we freely 



56 MEMOIR O? 

partook of that salvation which knows no 
bounds. Here many passed from the thraldom 
of sin, to a state of grace. I well recollect 
what a happy being ray sister was, at that time. 
Methinks, I can now behold that sweet smile — 
that heavenly penetrating look, which was 
enough to convince the sinner of the reality of 
religion. After the meeting closed, we returned 
to our employment again in Dudley ; and as we 
were engaged in many different families, we 
had some leisure time, which we improved in 
going from house to house among the people. 
In this duty we learned .some very important 
lessons. Elizabeth was a help-meet to me, in 
spiritual things ; and for years, we were of one 
mind. I rejoice that we were permitted to en- 
joy each other's society as long as we did : she 
was always happy. 

Sept. 27. — " More than one hundred met 
last evening in the meeting-house for a general 
class-meeting. This meeting was a feast to us 
all. Here ray sister praised God with full vic- 
tory in her soul. We were engaged a few days 
among the ungodly, who abound in wealth, but 
not in grace : yet, they were willing to listen to 
the simple truths of the gospel. Among this 
class, Elizabeth did her duty, and freed her 
garments from their blood. 

October "23. — " There was another meeting 
of the classes, last eveninsf. It was thought by 
some to be the most powerful meeting ever en- 
joyed in that house. Near the close, several 



tLIZABETH Ayy MOULTOJr. 57 

Went forward for prayers, and mv sister, with 
her usual earnestness and zeal, went to the 
altar and poured out her soul in prayer to God 
for the broken-hearted. Nor were her labors in 
Tain : for one after another was conTerted while 
praying. 

January 1, 1S31. — ''Went to Watch-night 
meeting, at the meeting-house. Br. Gould and 
Br. LoTej'jy preached, and the power of God 
seemed to rest upon us all, while the hoarse 
claps of thunder and flashes of lightning, awed 
us into reverence : feeling that God was nigh 
at hand. At about twelve, we all kneeled 
down, and continued in this position until the 
new year came in. Elizabeth shared largely in 
this feast, and was the better prepared in this 
meeting for her spiritual warfare. She con- 
tinued to seek out the penitent mourner, and to 
do them good during her short slay in Dudley. 
After this meeting, her faith being very strong, 
her eSbrti were continued to destroy the works 
of darkness ; ever striking powerfully at the 
root of sin. Notwithstanding her press of 
work, she would so manage all her affairs, if 
possible, as to attend all the means of grace 
within her reach. She thought it her duty to 
sacritice ease, and the pleasures of life, for a 
heavenly treasure, and the good of those around 
her. Thus she travelled on, singing victory 
over every foe. The brethren in Dudley can- 
not forget how abundant her labors were for the 
upbuilding of the cause of God in that place." 
•5 



58 MEMOItl» 

The time has now come when the subject of 
this notice is about to take her leave of Dudley. 
New scenes are now about to open before her 
mind. By industry and economy, she had 
saved some of her earnings, notwithstanding 
she had been benevolent to the poor, and to the 
preachers on the circuit, who received but a 
small compensation for their labors in those 
days, when the circuits were new. I have fre- 
quently heard her tell of the poverty of some of 
the preachers in that place, and of the efforts 
the sisters had made to obtain articles of cloth- 
ing for them and their wives. Living in, and 
about Dudley, between two and three years, 
she had become extensively acquainted with 
most of the societies in that region ; going 
also, from place to place, working at her trade, 
and attending so many meetings, she had an 
opportunity of becoming considerably acquaint^ 
ed with human nature, and of exercising the 
gifts, which had been committed to her trust ; 
this was undoubtedly the means of fitting her 
for more extensive usefulness in the church of 
God. The many revivals she enjoyed while 
there, had prepared her to enter more heartily 
into the work of God, in after life, which al* 
ways laid so near her heart. She has often re- 
ferred with pleasing sensations to the happy as- 
sociations which she formed in that region, and 
the many refreshings which she had enjoyed, 
and the out-pourings of the Holy Spirit upon 
the people, while she was there. 



CHAPTER IV. 



Having now held correspondence with Br, 
Samuel Estin, for some two years, a young man 
who had been preparing for, but now had entered 
into the ministerial ranks, she felt that she needed 
more education to qualify her to be more emi- 
nently useful in her anticipated sphere of life. 
She therefore made up her mind to suspend her 
business affairs and go to school ; thinking the 
providence of God had called her to this duty. 
She always possessed an ardent desire for know- 
ledge, scientific and divine. Hence, March 3, 
1831, her journal proceeds. — " Started for Wil- 
braham from Woodstock in the stage. Re- 
mained at school one term, and returned home 
to my parents." 

I have no desire, neither do I think it expe- 
dient, to introduce her correspondence with Br. 
Estin, which was protracted ; nor her corres- 
pondence with me, all of which was chaste and 
proper for the public eye. But that the readers 
may know her style and manner of writing, I 
will copy one letter which she wrote to Rev. 
Samuel Estin after her arrival in Wilbraham, a 
few months before they were united together to 
share each other's vicissitudes* 



60 MEMOIR or 

*' WiLBRAHAM AcADEMY, MaRCH 6, ISSl. 

" My Beloved Samuel : — I informed you in 
my last that I would write again, should I come 
to Wilbraham, and let you knov/ of my changes. 
I am after so long a time permitted to enjoy the 
society which I have long desired. Through 
some difficulty in consequence of the badness 
of the travelling, I did not arrive here until the 
4th inst. I am enjoying good health both in 
soul and body. I have just returned from class 
meeting to my room. We have had a heavenly 
time indeed. 

*' God has been preciously near to me, and I 
am much encouraged to persevere in the good 
old way which leads to heaven and immortal 
glory. Religion is well calculated to happify 
our souls, in all the changing vicissitudes of 
human life. I want more of it in possession 
than I now have. I do feel that Christ is an 
infinite fountain, and will grant all that we live, 
and believe for. God has dealt bountifully with 
you and me, ever since we became acquainted 
with each other. And may I not say, ever 
since we have had a being. I do praise God 
for what I at present enjoy in my poor heart. 
I feel that the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, is 
my Redeemer, Sanctifier and Comforter. I 
desire ever to enjoy this heavenly frame of mind, 
which I now possess ; pressing after more of 
the divine fullness. I shall need much of the 
grace of God to fill my anticipated station, and 
to keep me in the valley of humiliation. When 



ELIZABETH AN.N MOULTO?f. 61 

I tirst went into school some discouraging feel- 
ings arose. I felt my weakness and ignorance 
to such a degree, that 1 almost wished I had 
not come. But to-day, I am somewhat encour- 
aged to pursue my studies one term if no more. 
I have not fully concluded what studies I shall 
pursue, as this is only the second day since my 
arrival. I find the boarding house to be a 
heavenly place. I think I shall obtain profitable 
instruction here, as well as in the Academy. 
The good order and regulations that are main- 
tained, I think, are much to our advantage. O 
may I learn heavenly wisdom, as well as scien- 
tific knowledge. 

*' Sabbath Morn. — Have just enjoyed a sea- 
son of prayer with my sisters, in another room. 
One young lady is seeking religion. May God 
bless her soul to-day. I expect to hear Br. 
Fisk preach to-day for the first time. What 
blessings I do enjoy. Truly, I am unworthy of 
the enjoyment of such means of grace, but hope 
I shall improve them to the glory of Him who 
is the author of them all. I feel nothing con- 
trary to love in my heart, and do enjoy a mea- 
sure of the fullness, but how I long for more. 
Will you pray for me every day, when bowed 
before the Lord ? I humbly believe you will. 
Pray that the Father may give me all the prom- 
ised fullness of joy, an understanding heart, and 
a retentive memory ; that I may treasure up 
knowledge both human and divine. I long to 
see you and converse with you, face to face, 



tW MEMOIR or 

about the good things of the kingdom. But 
although we are separated in body, — a few miles 
dividing us, — yet, I believe we are inseparably 
joined in heart and spirit. O my brother ! be 
engaged for God ; live to him and near him 
continually. Never, for one moment, distrust 
him. Strive lo be a son of consolation in very 
deed. I believe this is your calling. Preach, 
pray and exhort in the spirit, and you will have 
souls for your hire. I feel interested in your 
welfare. I believe it was a good providence 
that has led us to identify our interests. I see 
and believe this more and more. And should 
we ever be so happy as to have our association 
consummated, I will try to live and be a faithful 
companion ; and I believe yo.u will reciprocate 
my intentions. If our anticipated union is of 
God, we shall be happy in each other's society. 
According to all that is past, I have reason to 
believe it is of God. I am happy in this reflec- 
tion. O may we be so faithful, that God may 
smile upon us through life ; that when we shall 
have done with time, we may enjoy an eternity 
of bliss together, for Christ's sake — Amen. 

" Write as soon as you receive this ; inform- 
ing me if you intend to go to Conference. I 
think of attending one day, if the way opens. 

* Not life nor all the toys of art, 
Nor wealth that golden load, 
Can to my soul such bliss impart, 
As fellowship with God !' 

" Believe me your sincere friend, 

Elizabeth Ann." 



ELIZABETH AX."V MOULTOZT. 63 

She wrote to sister Eunice Adams of Dudley 
as follows : — 

WlLBRAIIAM "VVeSLEYAN AcadEMY, ) 

March 5, 1831. i 

" Dear and Affectionate Sister : — It is with 
no small degree of pleasure that I have the 
privilege of addressing you at this time. I ar- 
rived at this place in safety yesterday, much 
fatigued in body, in consequence of the bad 
travelling. When I first went into school, I 
viewed myself so ignorant and unlearned, as I 
looked over the studies I intended to pursue, 
that things appeared very dark ; temptations 
arose, and I almost wished myself in Dudley 
again. But the order and regulations of the 
boarding house are so good, and there being so 
many here who love my blessed Jesus, I think 
that I cannot be discontented in such a place. 
In this place, as well as all others, I find that I 
must watch and pray, in order to keep alive, 
and be entirely engaged in the things of reli- 
gion. I need much grace to keep me in my 
proper place, — the valley of humility. I room 
with a young lady about 15 years of age, who 
has no interest in the Savior, but wishes to be 
happy. May I be of some use to her, and not 
a hindrance in so momentous a work as reli- 
gion ! My dear sister, many have been the 
privileges which we have enjoyed together. 
They are now past and gone, whether improved 
or not. I do desire to experience a deeper 



64 MEMOIR or 

work of grace in my heart, than I ever have as 
yet. I know that God is faithful, who has 
promised, and will withhold no good thing from 
those who Malk uprightly. O that the life that 
I now live may be by faith on the Son of God ; 
that I may, while favored with so many bless- 
ings, enjoy an uninterrupted peace of mind, and 
feel from day to day that my ways please the 
Lord. Any thing less, will never satisfy me. 
Religion never was designed to make our plea- 
sures less, and I bless God it does happify my 
mind, from day to day. It is a cordial for every 
fear, a balm for every wound. I feel, while I 
write, that God is my Father, the Holy Ghost 
my Comforter, and Jesus my Redeemer. What 
have I then to disconcert my mind, or make me 
unhappy? Methinks I hear you say, nothing. 
Truly, I will never be discouraged, nor faint in 
my mind, while blessed with so good a pilot as 
Jesus to help me steer my course on toward 
heaven. I am sensible, my dear sister, that 
much devolves on you. The eyes of the world 
are upon you, watching for your halting. Be 
faithful, then, to all around you. I trust you 
will. Never neglect your duty to those who are 
placed under you, in the Sabbath school. It 
may be, God will soon convert them to himself. 
O sister, let us be very humble, and fight against 
that dreadful monster pride, as much as pos- 
sible. God has done much for us, and we 
ought, in return, to give our hearts to Him. 
Much is implied in this command of giving our 



F.LIZABF.TH ANN MOULTON. 65 

hearts, our affections, and our all to Him. Then 
we can say, ' not as 1 will, but as Thou wilt.' 
Glory to God that this is required in the gospel. 
We, as a people, believe in the blessed doctrine 
of sanctification, and this is Bible doctrine too, 
for He wills our sanctification ; that we may be 
set apart for His use and service. Some are 
saying, we cannot attain to it, in this life, but 
Jesus says, * Be ye perfect, even as your Father 
in heaven is perfect.' This command, my dear 
E., is in the present tense, and is applicable to 
Christians in this world. Then, my dear friend, 
seek for all the fullness of God; and may you 
possess the whole Deity within, enjoying a 
bright evidence that you are wholly His ; and 
so live, that others, seeing your good works, 
may be constrained to glorify our Heavenly 
Father, May you and I, if we are never more 
permitted to enjoy each other's society below, 
meet with all the blood-washed millions, to 
celebrate God's praise for ever and ever — Amen. 

" I have a number of friends to whom I wish 
to write in different parts. Please remember 
me to all inquiring friends. Write soon, giving 
me all the news in D. 

" Believe me yours in the bonds of Christian 
affection." 



In this school Elizabeth formed a happy ac- 
quaintance with a large circle of interesting 
friends, the society of whom she prized highly, 
6 



66 MEMOIR OF 

and to whom she ever after alladed with sweet 
delight. Among these friends she had several 
correspondents, bur her letters are mostly he- 
yond my reach. She became very much inter- 
ested in her studies, and made respectable im- 
provement. Religion here appears to have been 
her all engrossing theme. Her fervent prayers 
and exhortations in the prayer and class meet- 
ings, soon attracted more than ordinary atten- 
tion ; and her peculiar manner of enforcing the 
blessing of sanctification upon her friends, 
melted many a heart. So persevering was she 
in this duty, that some of the preachers thought 
her immodest ; assuming rights and privileges 
which did not become a female ; but these 
feelings rose chiefly from envy, in my humble 
opinion. Preachers have hinted to me, know- 
ing that she was accustomed to exhort after 
preaching, that they did not wish their wives to 
mend their sermons. One preacher in a certain 
town, who thought her influence not good, she 
being so bold, and taking so much liberty in 
the presence of preachers, was met by another 
young preacher, who was a student with her at 
Wilbraham, who said, " she was esteemed by 
all the school as pure gold without any alloy." 

March 10. — The journal proceeds. — " Chris- 
tian benevolence is a property which we, as 
Christians, ought ever to possess. We may 
profess Christianity and benevolence too, and 
yet be destitute of both. The person who is 
possessed of this qualification, has generous 



ELIZABETH ANjV M0ULT0>\ 67 

feelings, and an open and liberal spirit ; desir- 
ing to do good unto all as far as his ability will 
admit. His hands are ever open to relieve the 
poor and distressed, and his heart ever responds 
to the calls of charity. Much, too, will depend 
upon the manner in which we bestow our favors, 
in order to receive the promised rev/ard of our 
Heavenly Father. Persons deeply devoted, 
possessing liberal minds and feelings, will not 
only benefit their fellow men with their money, 
but by their prayers and counsels ; seeking to 
do their souls good." 

April 4, 1831. — She wrote home a family 
letter, as she was accustomed to do ; wishing to 
give all a portion in due season. In this letter 
the reader will perceive that she deeply regrets 
that she had not been more dutiful to her pa- 
rents, while under their parental watch-care ; 
alluding probably to the time when she expe- 
rienced religion. She then thought that she 
must obey God's commandments, by attending 
to ail the duties of religion, as she had been 
taught them, irrespective of the wishes of her 
parents. And, I would here observe, that she 
always blessed God that she united with the 
Methodist E. Church, But her parents, at that 
time being opposed to the course she took, upon 
more mature reflection, she regretted that she 
had not consulted their wishes, fearing her 
course miorht have deeply prejudiced her mother 
against religion, and might have proved an hin- 
drance to her salvation. She, wishing now to 



68 MEMOIR OF 

remove every stumbling-block out of the way, 
made the following concessions ; as her prayers 
for many years, had not, as yet, been answered 
in the conversion of her soul. She never 
thought, however, in religious matters, the pa- 
rents' authority ought to supersede the divine 
authority, but on the other hand, when peremp- 
torily refused the privilege of uniting with the 
church of their choice, she believed children 
should forsake fathers and mothers, for Christ's 
sake. Her house was always a place of refuge 
for this class of Christians, who had been driven 
from their homes on account of persecution 
from this source. 

My dear absent Parents, — As I am now 
favored with the opportunity of forwarding a 
few lines by Br. Rice, I cannot decline writing. 
I am now enjoying good health in every sense, 
and hope these lines will find you enjoying the 
same blessing. I am here surrounded with 
every mercy I need. I still find religion carry- 
ing me above the things of this transient world. 
Dear parents : although it is my lot to be sepa- 
rated far from you, yet I often feel sensations 
of gratitude that I have an Heavenly Parent, to 
whom I can go and have my desires satisfied. 
I often think, that I never shall be able to re- 
compense you for the kindness you have shown 
me, from the first dawn of my existence until 
the present time. O, the obligation of a child 
to a parent ! I know, my dear mother, I have 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 69 

in many things been disobedient, from my 
youth up, for which I am led to make the most 
humble acknowledgment, as a child. I know 
that 1 have too often been found in forbidden 
paths, and, instead of setting a godly example, 
I fear I have manifested an unholy disposition. 
I realize still, my liability to fall, unless on my 
watch-tower. I truly feel the need of your 
prayers for me, while I remain in this place. 
God is good to me and blesses me with his 
smiles and favor. I ought, in return, to render 
my heart obedient to his commandments. I do 
feel that peace in my soul, which the world can- 
not give, and blessed be God ! it cannot take it 
away. I fear oftentimes that my letters to you 
may seem trite and uninteresting; for I cannot 
always possess that liberty in writing to you 
which I desire ; — but dear parents, I trust that 
so long as I am blest with your society on 
earth, you will be favored with, not only my 
letters, but my feeble prayers, for your sal- 
vation. Yea, I shall remember you at the 
Throne of Grace, and beseech God to preserve 
your lives and mine, until we meet again. This 
I believe He will do, in answer to my prayers." 

"to LUCY. 

" My dear Sister, — I long to see you, as well 
as the rest of the family. I often wish you were 
here, participating in the rich blessings which 
I enjoy. I hope, my dear Lucy, that you are 
not altogether regardless of the interests of 
*6 



70 MEMOIR OF 

your immortal soul. God lias endowed you 
with an ability to serve him ; and I hope you 
will not reject the kind offers of mercy, nor 
grieve away the Holy Spirit. O that you, in 
your youthful days, would forsake your vani- 
ties, and secure an interest in the Savior. Re- 
member this life is passing away, and you have 
a great work to do, to prepare to meet your 
God in peace. O do not neglect your soul's 
eternal interest, I beseech you ! Can you not 
be prevailed upon to seek the Lord, before it 
shall be too late ? I feel concerned for you, 
and much desire your conversion to God ; you 
lay near my heart : the ties of nature being 
strong, I want you to have religion and be 
happy. You have, in vain, sought for happiness 
in the world and its fashions : they cannot 
satiate your spiritual thirst. Come then, and 
lay hold on eternal life, and you will find sub- 
stantial enjoyment. I could easily drop the 
sympathising tear for you. The Lord is wait- 
ing to be gracious ; He is waiting for your 
compliance to his terms. O do not the Holy 
Spirit grieve, I entreat you." 

" A WORD TO MY DEAR LOUISA AND CELIA. 

" You must remember that you are in the 
days of childhood, and your Heavenly Father 
has taught you to remember him in the days of 
your youth ; lest when you are old, the evil 
days will draw nigh, when you will say, ' I have 
no pleasure in them.' I hope, dear children, 



ELUZABEYH ANN MOULTON. 7l 

you will remember the admonitions of your 
parents, and be obedient to them in all things 
consistent. I have heard nothing about your 
school the winter past, except that you had a 
female teacher. I trust that you have learned 
many new and good things. O, get wisdom, 
and withall, get understanding, so shall you 
grow up useful and happy in the world, and 
your deaths shall be triumphant. I will send 
you a little piece of my room-mate's painting : 
keep it clean and nice in your drawer. I hope, 
my dear Louisa, that you will not leave home 
this spring. I want you to stay until I come 
home, which will be the last of May. I should 
like to stay another term, but do not feel able. 
I expect when I come, to spend some time with 
you. May the Lord direct us in all things ; 
teaching us His holy will. In closing, I would 
say, that I went to a quarterly meeting in Bel- 
chertown, Saturday last, in company with al* 
most thirty students. E. A. Arnold." 

Her diary continues : 

May 1, 1831. — *'0, how negligent have t 
been in the performance of many of my duties, 
the year past ! Too much of my precious time 
has not been improved as I could wish. Still 
the Lord deals bountifully with me. I have felt 
much of the presence of God this day. Br. 
Fisk, that good man, preached to us on the im* 
portance of prayer. His text was, * What profit 



73 MEMOIR or 

shall we have if we pray unto Him.' While he 
was illustrating this subject, and setting forth 
the importance of prayer, thought I, how little 
have I realized the worth of prayer. I now re- 
solve to be more devoted to that Being, who 
has done so much for me, than I have been be- 
fore. O, that God would help me ! I have now 
been at Wilbraham almost one term. I have 
not made that progress in science which I 
ought, but God has blessed my soul, and I am 
encouraged to pursue ray course heavenward. 

May 10. — " In vain do we seek our happi- 
ness in the things of this world. Every thing 
that this earth can afford is fading and transi- 
tory, and yields no substantial enjoyment. We 
behold the flower that blossoms in the morning : 
it looks beautiful : we wish it would continue 
for ever. We look again — it withers and dies. 
Thus are our lives passing away. We appear, 
for a little season, in the world, and bid fair for 
a long life ; but soon, very soon, we droop and 
die. But there is a source, whence true happi- 
ness is derived. That God who has created us 
rational and intelligent creatures, has provided 
a way, whereby we may escape the pollutions 
of the world, and be made happy. He has pro- 
vided for us an infinite fountain of grace, to 
which we may come and receive mercy — even 
life for evermore." 

May 15. — "How beautiful to behold the 
youthful minds entirely engaged in the pursuit 
of literature, studying the various branches 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 73 

with diligence and zeal. They appear desirous 
to be persons of eminence and esteem among 
their fellow men. I rejoice to see many in this 
school who are striving to excel in knowledge, 
and become noted for learning. I fear there are 
too many of us, who possess too little ambition 
and perseverance to climb the hill of science, 
and care too little whether we advance in 
knowledge or not. But who among us, that 
values the importance and worth of time, can 
indulge himself in those things, which destroy 
a relish for the acquisition of knowledge, both 
human and divine? I hope I may so improve 
my time, as that I shall not regret the pains 
taken in coming so far to gain a little know- 
lodge. I observe that the farther I advance in 
my studies, the more I am delighted with them. 
I can scarcely indulge the thought for a mo- 
ment, that I am so soon to leave this beloved 
institution. But duty calls, and I must obey. 
I must soon bid farewell to my beloved asso- 
ciates of this school, perhaps no more to enjoy 
their society on earth. O solemn thought ! and 
yet, how transporting, while considering, if 
faithful to our Heavenly Benefactor, we are all 
bound to one place, and shall soon meet in that 
brighter world, where parting scenes are known 
no more!" 

After the spring term closed, Elizabeth re- 
turned home and spent the summer with her 
parents, and continued her journal. 



74 MEMOIR OF 

I have always had my doubts, whether daily 
occurrences, noted in a journal, ought to be 
printed, unless something occurs to make iheni 
interesting. There must, of necessity, be a 
sameness, which soon becomes irksome to the 
mind of most readers. I w^ill, however, copy 
her journal of two or three days, as a specimen. 

June 1 : Evening, — " The sun has now set, 
in the western horizon, which announces the 
departure of another day. This reminds me 
of that period, when the sun of life will set with 
me. Hov/ delightful to look back on a day 
that has passed pleasantly away; especially, 
when we can feel conscious that we have done 
all that we could to promote the welfare of cur 
fellow men. 

June 2. — *' Another day has appeared : ex- 
cessive heat almost overcomes me. I hardly 
feel any spirit to work or study. But time is 
very precious ; I must therefore improve it, as 
it passes along — knowing that I must give an 
account for the same. 

June 3. — " When I contemplate past mer- 
cies, and present blessings, which I so richly 
enjoy, I am led to adore that Being, who is the 
Author and Bestower of them all. I am now 
favored with many kind friends, with whom I 
have enjoyed many social seasons ; who seem 
strongly attached to me by the ties of true 
friendship. 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 75 

June 6. — " Another day of my short life has 
passed, and how delightful to look back upon 
it, and see that I have been preserved from out- 
breaking sins. O may my days be spent in the 
fear of that God, who has done so much for 
me, that I may at last be re-united with them, 
who have washed their robes and made them 
white in the blood of the Lamb." 

About this time, Elizabeth obtained the con- 
tents of a letter written by a preacher in Eng- 
land, giving advice to a friend of his, respecting 
the great blessing of sanctification — how he 
experienced it, retained it, &lc. She copied 
and preserved it, for her own benefit ; and, I 
should think, nearly committed it to memory — 
as its sentiments were often advanced by her, 
in after life, while exhorting her friends to be 
holy. Believing it will be of great practical use 
to every sincere inquirer after the deep things 
of God, I have thought proper to copy it into 
this work, for the benefit of the reader. 

*' Dear Br., — In answer to your letter, re- 
questing my advice respecting the work of God 
in your soul, I will shortly state what plans I 
myself pursue. Formerly, when living in a 
justified state, there was a double mind in me 
— a desire to meet the wisdom and prudence 
of the world : a sort of three-quarters way, that 
they might be gained over with less disgust, on 
their part, and less odium of the cross, on my 



76 BIEMOIR OF 

part. But now, since God has saved me from 
self, pride, and unbelief, the fear of man is 
taken away, and the base man-pleasing spirit is 
removed. I have set up for myself, making the 
word of God and the rules of Methodism, my 
rule and guide ; as well as the conduct of our 
Savior, and his followers, who are now living, 
and those who are gone home. I have given 
God my undivided heart ; believing he does ac- 
cept it, and believing that the blood of Christ 
cleanseth from all sin. Like a stone lying on 
the foundation, so do I lie on God's promises, 
and Christ's blood, giving God my soul and 
body — a living sacrifice; covenanting with 
him, never to doubt more. My language is, 
* sink or swim, loFt or saved, I will believe.' I 
will sooner die, than doubt. This decision of 
mind is attended with a refusal to regard frames 
and feelings as any criterion of my state ; be- 
lieving He does save me, whether filled or 
emptied, raised up or cast down ; leaving the 
quantity of comfort to God's wisdom ; knowing 
I am not saved by feeling, but by faith. It is 
holiness I want and have, and not ecstacy. A 
solid peace is my birthright. With that, I am 
content ; knowing that the trial of my faith is 
more precious than uncertain ecstacies. I 
never look at my imperfections, without be- 
lieving that his blood does wash them all away. 
One act of faith does more good than twenty 
years of prayer without it. My prayer is dif- 
ferent from what it was when only in a jus- 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 77 

tified state. I do not ask, expecting an answer 
at some future time ; but I believe that I re- 
ceive now, while I am praying, and the Holy 
Ghost says you have it. I am now seeking for 
all the fullness of the Spirit, and have received 
some partial glimpses of that state. It is not 
an overflowing with joy — this would unfit us 
to live in the world ; but it is a state of the 
soul, in which God Himself, fills up every part 
of it. The law of love being perfected in his 
heart, he thinketh no evil ; beareth all things, 
knowing that it is done. To be emptied or 
cleansed from all sin merely, says Mr. Fletcher, 
is only negative salvation, the positive of which 
is, * I will put my spirit within you, and cause 
you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep 
my judgments and do them.' Love, then, is 
equal to all its demands. As to my class-meet- 
ings, I agonize in believing prayer for the 
whole of my three classes, that all of them may 
be sanctified throughout, soul, body, and spirit, 
knowing that while my prayer is offered up in 
faith, He that hath called them will also do it. 
I confess before them my utmost salvation to 
the very outside of what I enjoy. This honors 
God, and does not exalt self. As no blessing 
can be held without confession, I endeavor, in 
the power of the Spirit, to make sharp the 
knife, and to cut up, and let out, all that is in 
the inside. The skin is very apt to become 
tough ; but spare not until the heart is wholly 
broken down; then, like the wise physician, 
7 



78 MEMOIR or 

who has probed the wound to the very bottom^ 
and let out all the bad matter, pour in the balm 
and the wine. Pursuing this course, I have 
now fifty members who are entirely sanctified. 
In preaching to sinners, I endeavor to make 
sure work of the breaking down part first, be- 
fore any salvation is offered. I then tell them, 
as bad as their case is, there is hope, if they 
will be saved on God's terms, viz. : lay down 
their weapons of rebellion, and come to Christ 
for pardon. I try to show the difference be- 
tween desiring pardon and obtaining it. The 
penitent is disposed to trust in his praying. 
When children ask for bread, they ask in order 
to obtain it, and not to perform the duty of 
asking. And it is bread that they want — no- 
thing else will satisfy them. I try to make the 
atonement of Christ as a substitute, and his 
having died in my stead as plain as possible, to 
a consciously-lost sinner ; and there is not 
much difficulty in doing this when the heart is 
broken for sin, and from sin. Believe on the 
Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved, is 
spoken with mighty power to one in this state. 
The act of believing is the penitent's; the 
same as it is the act of a man to jump into the 
water, when he wishes to bathe himself. Entire 
sanctification is the glory of the gospel ; pardon 
is merely to bring us to an acquaintance with 
God. When all past sins are forgiven, the out- 
ward reign of sin over the body has come to an 
end. But the enemies within — such as self- 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 79 

will, self-preference, anger, peevishness, a puff- 
ing up at times, desires after the world, enmity 
against God's way of saving souls, self-opinion, 
uncharitableness in judging others, &c. — must 
all be destroyed. .We cannot cast them out 
ourselves, either by prayer, self-denial, or fast- 
ing. The exercise of these duties, as important 
and valuable as they are in themselves, will not 
subdue them. None but God can speak the 
second time, be clean ! but God does it when 
the whole soul is given to him. When done, 
God is loved supremely. Preaching this doc- 
trine, in the simple way of faith, will be ren- 
dered a great blessing. As Christ, by his death, 
purchased a full salvation, and promises it to 
all who seek it, and as he commands us to be 
holy, we cannot please Him without it. God 
can, and will save us, the moment we believe. 
If we trust and rely on his promises, it will be 
according to our faith. We are not to wait 
God's time, as some say : this would be un- 
scriptural. Now is His time. We are not to 
wait for more power to believe; for if we wait 
for power, we cannot believe without it, and 
consequently all who do not believe are lost 
because God did not give the power : 

* But if on God I dare rely, 
The faith shall bring the power.' 

Faith comes by hearing; unbelief is the ab- 
sence of faith. The key is provided for me, 
when I repent and forsake sin, but it is by the 



BO MEMOIR. 

Strength of my hand and wrist that I turn the 
lock. You will find many a twenty years' pro- 
fessor opposed to this simple plan of salvation 
by faith, without the deeds of the law. The 
condition of man's salvation is, 'repent and be- 
lieve,' all the way through. Always preach it, 
press it; make all the powers of mind and 
body, of faith and prayer, bend towards it. Do 
not look at the hardness, prejudice, and un- 
belief of the people; but at the promises of 
God, that His blessing mny attend your labors. 
Believe He does it, and He does do it. I would 
recommend you to read very carefully Mr. 
Wesley on repentance of believers, on patience, 
and his scripture way of salvation, his tract on 
perfection ; also, Fletcher's Checks, the sixth 
volume, Hester Ann Rogers, Bramwell's Life„ 
Mrs. Fletcher's Life. &c." 



CHAPTER V. 



Having spent the summer at home, Eliza* 
beth returned to school in Wilbraham again in 
the fall. Having now become attached to her 
books, she pursued her studies with eagerness 
and delight ; attending, at the same time, to all 
the ordinances of God's house, and holding 
forth, as usual, the great principles of christian 
holiness. 

Here the Lord was preparing her mind for 
scenes, through which she then little expected 
to pass. She is soon to leave the school, by an 
unforseen providence to her; to enter more 
publicly upon the theatre of life, and wade 
through deep afflictions. When she went to 
school this term, she did not expect to be 
united to her anticipated companion for some 
two or three years ; but providential circum- 
stances had changed his appointment from a 
circuit to a station, where the brethren had 
prepared a parsonage, and arrangements con- 
venient to entertain a family. They, learning 
that he had a partner in anticipation, urged him 
to brin^ matters to a crisis, as soon as prac- 
#7 



8Sf MEMOIR or 

ticable. He consulted his Presiding Elder, rela^ 
tive to these matters, and the wishes of his in- 
tended wife, who, after much prayer and me- 
ditation, consented. He resolved upon mar- 
riage. Elizabeth then left the school ; returned 
immediately home; made the best preparation 
she could ; and was united to Rev. Samuel 
Estin, December 1, 1831. 

They started, the next day, for Greenwich, 
in Massachusetts, where Mr. Estin was then 
stationed, to preach the gospel. They arrived, 
and immediately commenced keeping house, 
being assisted by their friends with every tem- 
poral blessing which they needed. They soon 
began to labor together for the salvation of 
souls : both professing to enjoy the blessing of 
entire sanctification. 

It was quickly perceived by the brethren in 
the charge, that the female department had 
gained strength by the new comer. Elizabeth 
now made it her invariable rule to attend all 
the religious meetings with her companion, 
which much encouraged him in his labors of 
love, and the people to whom he administered. 
They pressed the importance of entire sanctifi- 
cation, upon the church, with so much earnest- 
ness and zeal, that the cry was soon heard 
among them, for holiness. This also aroused 
the attention of sinners, they wishing to know 
what these strange things meant. Soon, several 
received this pearl of great price, and it was 
noised about that the *' Methodists were getting 
to he perfect J' 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 83 

About this time, a young lady went from 
Greenwich to Wales, where I was then labor- 
ing, and informed me, as if it was one of the 
strangest things in the world, that ** seven of 
the Methodists in Greenwich had arrived at 
perfection." Br. Estin, possessing a slender 
constitution, labored too hard for his health, in 
this reformation, and it soon failed him. He 
was obliged to suspend his labors. For some 
weeks, it was thought by himself and friends, 
that he would recover again ; but he gradually 
failed day after day, until he committed his 
spirit into the hands of his Heavenly Father, 
to enter upon the endless happiness of heaven. 
This painful event took place in about seven- 
teen weeks after their matrimonial connection. 
The lamented death of Br. Estin occasioned 
great solemnity among the people, as he had 
become interwoven in their affections. The 
widow of the deceased, although deeply afflict- 
ed, being bereaved of the companion of her 
youth, continued to keep house and labor with 
the brethren until the next annual conference. 

The brethren having already had two preach- 
ers since the session of the last conferences, 
asked for no more, until the close of the year, 
three months of which still remained. They 
were satisfied to hold prayer-meetings, with the 
help of E., who was considered by them a 
good auxiliary in this time of need. Thomas 
Murcy, Esq., who, although not a Methodist, 
yet, for the sake of his family, took a deep in* 



84 MEMOIR OF 

terest in the temporal affairs of this church, 
and was its chief supporter, said, that " Mrs. 
Estin was the greatest female orator that he had 
ever heard address an audience." The fact was, 
her powerful prayers and exhortations had a 
subduing influence upon his heart, as they had 
upon the whole congregation gathered in that 
place. Often were the hearts of those assem- 
bled melted into tears, while listening to the 
moving strains of mercy, that flowed from her 
lips. She never attempted to preach : but 
many that heard her exhort, said that " they 
had rather hear her, than her husband ;" and in 
after days it was nothing uncommon for the 
brethren to tell me, that *' such and such per- 
sons had rather hear my wife improve, than 
myself," and ''that if she were going to im- 
prove, they would go to the meeting." Let it 
suffice me to say, that the church in Greenwich 
were satisfied to hold prayer-meetings on the 
Sabbath until conference, being assisted with 
the labors of sister Estin. 

One of her correspondents, who lived in 
Greenwich, the summer after her husband died, 
wrote as follows : — " Holiness of heart seemed 
to be a theme on which sister E. loved to 
dwell, and to urge on others. I believe she in- 
troduced this subject in every letter which she 
wrote to me, and it seems to me, that she was 
ripe for heaven ; and therefore taken to that 
celestial abode. She always exerted a happy 
influence in society. The very atmosphere 



ELIZABETH AN?J MOULTOJT. 85 

around her appeared to be pure. The circle 
in which she moved must have been bene- 
fitted by her holy example. The feeling that 
they could have no meeting without her pre- 
sence, prevailed in Greenwich, as it has else- 
where." 

The three following letters were written to 
two of her correspondents in Dudley, who were 
companions with her in tribulation and in 
christian warfare when she resided there. They 
were written after her marriage ; one before, 
and two after, her husband's health had failed 
him. 

" Greenwich, Dec. 23, 1831. 
*' to miss eveline gilmore. 

" Dear Sister, — An opportunity presenting 
to write, I wish to improve it, and answer 
yours. Probably you have heard of our mar- 
riage ere this, and would like to hear of our 
prosperity. I can tell you, my dear sister Eve- 
line, that God is with us. I have peace in be- 
lieving, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Praise 
God, for his unbounded fullness ! O sister, 
shall I ever meet you again, on the shores of 
m.ortality? The will of the Lord be done ! I 
should be happy to see you, and enjoy some 
more meetings with you, in Dudley. 1 trust 
you are still rising in the divine life; if so, I 
would Fay, go on ! I am bound to meet you in 
the haven of eternal repose. How do all the 
dear friends do? Have any of them back- 



86 MEMOIR or 

slidden from the path of duty ? May the Lord 
bring them home again. Are any seeking the 
Savior ? May they soon find him to the joy of 
their souls ! Give my best respects to all those 
with whom I am acquainted. Tell them, I 
have not forgotten them, although time and 
distance have separated us in this world. I 
think God has placed me here for something. 
I desire to be of some little use, while I stay. 
We have some precious seasons ; also some 
additions to our little church, for which I 
would praise God and be thankful. O pray for 
us, that our feeble endeavors may be blest to 
the good of precious souls, for whom Christ 
died. You wrote of the death of sister M. 
Adams, at which I was much surprised. Dear 
girl, she has got home. May my last end be 
like her's. 

" As the intended bearer of our letters has 
gone, I will lengthen my communications and 
send by mail. Sister Lydia is well and happy. 
O how much she enjoys ! May I be like her, 
continually pressing after all the deep things of 
God ! O how much there is for us to enjoy 
in this world ! I sometimes almost long to 
quit this vile house of clay, and wing my way 
through the ethereal blue, to mansions of eter- 
nal bliss. O what an inexhaustible fountain of 
consolation is there in the religion of Jesus ! 
What lengths, and depths, to comprehend ! 
O how diligent ought we to be in all manner 
of holy conversation and godliness ! Let us 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 87 

Strive so much the more, as we see the day ap- 
proaching. Let us have holiness for our motto. 
O, how I praise God, that my lot was ever cast 
among a people that contend for the life and 
power of holiness : yea, for clean hearts. O, 
my sister, do you enjoy this full salvation 1 Do 
you feel that all the buyers and sellers are 
turned out ? that * the life you now live in the 
flesh is by faith on the Son of God V If you 
do, hold it fast, while life shall last, and show 
to all around the blessed treasure you have 
found. May you be abundantly instrumental 
in the conversion and sanctification of many 
souls in your day and generation ! is the prayer 
of your unworthy, but constant friend, 

" Elizabeth Ann Estin." 

*' to mrs. celia adams. 
" Dear and respected Sister, — Thinking 
you were anxious to hear from your brother, I 
would relieve you of your anxiety, by assuring 
you that he is better, though far from being 
well. He has rode out several times. We 
have spent nearly one week in visiting. Yes- 
terday, he took another ride about fourteen 
miles distant, and returned just at night, quite 
overcome with fatigue. He has not been able 
to sit up much to-day. I fear he will have a 
relapse. I sometimes feel almost discouraged, 
and the way looks dark before me. But when 
I realize that God will not lay more upon us, 
th^Q we can bear, and that these afflictions are 



88 MEMOIR OF 

only for a season, and will work out for us 
a far more exceeding, and eternal weight of 
glory, I am almost ready to say, (and can I not 
say it ?) the ' will of the Lord be done,' I feel 
very much the importance of a steadfast faith, 
and an entire reliance on God. I have re- 
ceived much at His hands, and have as strong 
determinations to see the end of the christian 
race as ever. I view, in God, an unbounded 
ocean of love and mercy, and, from time to 
time, am enabled to pluck a cluster from the 
tree of life, and drink of those streams which 
make glad the city of God. I expect, if faith- 
ful here, God will make me a sharer iA His 
glory hereafter. 

" I am happy to inform you that the good 
work of the Lord is prospering in this place. 
The brethren are well engaged, and their 
motto is — give us clean hearts. I trust you 
and your husband are still alive to God. Go 
on, and may you possess strong confidence in 
God and an abiding evidence that you are the 
Lord's. 

''Sabbath Evening. — I again resume my 
pen to finish my letter. Since I wTote the 
above, my husband has had a relapse of sick- 
ness at his stomach, and has vomited no less 
than six times witiiin an hour ; but he now lies 
quiet and composed. 

" We are surrounded with many dear friends, 
who are very kind and attentive. May the 
Lord reward them ! 

'* Elizabeth Ann Estin." 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 89 



TO MISS EVELINE GILMORE. 

" Dear Sister, — I have a few precious mo- 
ments to spend in writing. There are many to 
whom I should like to write a ^e\x words, so 
that you will not expect much from me, es- 
pecially at this critical moment. We are much 
rejoiced, to see some of our friends from your 
region. We heard some solemn news in the 
death of our friends, M. Harbison and L. Herd. 
Dear girls! they have left the church militant, 
to join the church triumphant. A loud call 
for us to be also ready ! May you and I be 
so happy, as to join them around the throne, 
and praise God with them for ever and ever ! 

what a consoling theme is religion ! I trust 

1 am still pursuing my steady course towards 
heaven ; and if faithful to the grace given, I 
expect to wear palms of victory and crowns of 
glory that will not fade away. Yes, blessed be 
God, notwithstanding my affliction, I feel some 
of the same hallowed fire in my heart, which I 
used to feel when we were permitted to enjoy 
each other's society. I have enjoyed precious 
seasons, this winter, in going from place to 
place. Although my prospects are somewhat 
blasted at present, yet, I believe it is for my 
good. I have no desire to repine, or murmur 
at the dispensations of God's providence : I 
feel assured of the fulfilment of that promise 
which saith, ' all things shall work for good 
to thera that love God.' 

8 



90 MEMOIR OF 

*' Mr. Estin's health has been declining, for 
about eight weeks. There were many calls for 
labor, and no one to preach but him ; he there- 
fore preached far too long, after his health l)e- 
gan to fail. It is now twenty-one days since he 
has been confined to his room ; but we trust he 
is now convalescent. Our meetings are still 
continued on the Sabbath ; but we are without 
preaching. The good work of God is progress- 
ing in the church and among sinners. God has 
been better to us than our fears; for, while the 
shepherd of this little flock has been smitten, 
the sheep and lambs have not been scattered. 
No ! the work has gone on ; some precious sin- 
ners have been converted to God, and some of 
the members have been sanctified by that blood 
which cleanseth from all sin. Six of our dear 
brethren and sisters have experienced this great 
blessing, within two weeks. Sister, do you 
enjoy this blessing ? Have you given the Lord 
your heart, in an everlasting covenant, never to 
be forgotten 1 Time is on the wing ; death is 
approaching, and soon it will summon us away ; 
but * without holiness no man shall see the 
Lord.' O what a close work ! May you, my 
dear sister, enjoy all that is for you, in the gos- 
pel, and be so iiappy as to gain heaven for 
Christ's sake. E. A. Estin." 

Our subject continues her diary : 
April 29, 1832. — ''Nearly one year has 
elapsed since the above journal was written. 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 91 

And oh, what scenes of sorrow, mingled with 
joy, have I experienced in that time ! I left 
Wilbraham and returned to Lunenburg, and 
spent the summer in my dear father's family,- 
very pleasantly; and returned to Wilbraham 
again with an intention to pursue my studies. 
I attended a while ; but was not then aware of 
what was before mc. A new way opened up 
suddenly, and unexpectedly ; so that after at- 
tending school about seven weeks, I returned 
again to Lunenburg, and tarried, until I was 
united in marriage to Mr. Estin — one with 
whom I had held a long and happy correspond- 
ence. Mysterious were the providences which 
brought us together ; but more mysterious 
still, was that providence which so shortly en- 
sued. Scarcely had four months passed, when 
I was deprived of my bosom friend. He whom 
I loved and prized above every other earthly 
blessing, was torn from my fond embrace, and 
consigned to the narrow limits of the tomb. I 
am sometimes led to say, * why is it thus ? why 
should I be left alone to wander through this vale 
of sorrow and woe?' But, ah! cease my soul, 
and be still ! Jesus has done all things well. I 
was promising myself much happiness with my 
dear husband ; but oh, how soon were my pros- 
pects blighted, and my fond anticipations 
exchanged for participations in affliction, sor- 
row, and bereavement ! O, let me never more 
put trust in any earthly form, before my God! 
O my Father in heaven ! support me while un- 



92 MEMOIR OF 

der this heavy rod. O raise my affections from 
earth to heaven, and ever keep them there !" 

May 10. — "It does seem sometimes, as 
thouirh I should sink under this heavy stroke ; 
but He who does not suffer a sparrow to fall to 
the ground without his notice, has hitherto up- 
held me and preserved me from sinking." 

May 15. — " O how numerous are the mer- 
cies and blessings which I receive from the 
kind hand of God, even in the midst of afflic- 
tions ! I would not undervalue them, but fear 
I many times do. O heavenly Father, keep me 
ever humble at thy feet 1 May I possess godly 
simplicity at all times, and have abiding faith, 
and may I so live that when health and flesh 
shall fail, I may receive a never-fading crown 
of glory !" 

May 17. — " I spent most of this day at Br. 
N.'s — had a pleasant time with the family, and 
trust it has not been a lost season to my soul. 

' O for a closer walk with God, 
A calm and heavenly frame.' 

I believe there are greater blessings for me in 
the treasury of my heavenly Father. When 
shall I be more lost to all but God, more puri- 
fied and refined from dross ! O may I, in the 
language of the Poet, 

' Plunge in the Godhead's deepest sea, 
Be lost in its immensity !" 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 93 

May 21. — "This morning reminds me of 
the solemn event which took place seven weeks 
ago this day, viz. : the death of my dear hus- 
band. O how changed is my situation now ! I 
fear I shall repine — stop my soul; Jesus has 
done all things well — my mind is calm and 
peaceful. O may I enjoy more of the deep 
things of God ! My Heavenly Father, give me 
all of thy fullness of love to enjoy, that I may 
adorn Christianity from this time forward and 
for ever. Amen !" 

So deeply did Elizabeth grieve on account 
of the sudden death of her husband, that s«me 
of her friends feared that she would sink into a 
decline, and soon follow him into the spirit 
land ; as her journal testifies : 

July 1. — "I yet live to see the light of 
another Sabbath. O why is my life thus pro- 
longed ! I trust it is that I may the better 
honor the Lord. New scenes are constantly 
opening before me. I sometimes view death 
very near. Afflictions and hard labor have 
nearly worn me down. I think much of my 
dear husband, who has gone the way of all 
the earth. O when shall I meet his happy 
spirit, and praise with him, the Lord for ever ! 
Fifteen weeks ago he was in a fair way to re- 
cover. But ah ! his disorder soon wore a dif- 
ferent aspect, and my fond hopes were blighted ! 
Death seized the clay tenement, and took him 
*8 



94 MEMOIR or 

from earth away. '' O the loneliness of widow- 
hood ! But the Lord is my support : I shall 
not want." 

July 4. — "O how shall I praise my God 
enough for all his mercies? This day and week 
has hrought many cares with it ; but blessed be 
God, they do not mar my peace. I have strong 
confidence in my Savior, and oft-times feel un- 
speakably joyful, while trusting him, for all 
things. To-morrow I expect to set out on a 
journey to Dudley, where I first saw him who 
now lies sleeping in the silent grave. The 
thought of meeting our dear friends gives me 
a painful pleasure. I have long desired to see 
the dear friends of my departed husband. O 
may it prove a blessing to me 1 I feel the im- 
porlance of living near the side of my Savior, 
that I may be in constant readiness for the 
hour of death, which I feel is near at hand." 

July 20. — " I find that I lose much enjoy- 
ment by neglecting small duties; such as read- 
ing, writing, &C. The cares of life also are 
apt to hinder me from enjoying my regular 
hours of devotion. This ought not to be : but 
how prone to wander from the living God ! 
This day is set apart by the members of the 
New England Conference, to be observed as 
a day of fasting and prayer, that God would 
avert his judgments which are now afflicting 
the people." 



ELIZABETH AMV MOULTON. 95 

Notwithstanding the pathway of Elizabeth 
had been strewn with thorns and trials thus far, 
and her health and spirits were sinking under 
the weight, still the Lord had more for her- to 
do and suffer, before he called her home to 
glory. After her husband's death, her labors 
were more highly appreciated than ever, in 
Greenwich ; and consequently, the report of 
her usefulness spread in every direction, and 
she was esteemed as one eminently successful 
in helping to build up the church of God. 

Her name was mentioned to me by some 
of her friends in Greenwich and elsewhere, as 
a suitable person with whom to identify my 
interests. After having visited the place, and 
prayed much that I might be directed aright 
in these niomentous matters, my mind was 
deeply impressed with the fact, that God in his 
providence, was preparing her to share in my 
vicissitudes; I then commenced a correspond- 
ence with her on the subject, which resulted in 
the consummation of our anticipated union, 
December 13th, 1832. 

Mrs. Moulton, having now entered the itiner- 
ant ranks again, commenced, with me, the 
second evening after our connection, in relating 
the story of the cross, with all that zeal and 
fortitude, which should characterize a christian 
hero. Having no settled home during the re- 
mainder of this conference year, she continued 
travelling with me, from day to day, most of 
the time j and consequently she did not write 



96 MEMOIR. 

as much as usual, neither did she ever, after 
this period, write as much as formerly. In 
order therefore, to give the reader a just esti- 
mate of her labors and usefulness, in after life, 
it will be nec(^ssary to identify her career with 
mine ; and that I may give some new interest to 
the readers, where I have labored, as well as some 
variety to the volume, I will digress from the 
usual course in small biographies, and glance 
back to the time when God called me to preach ; 
and bring out a few facts and incidents, up to 
the time I left the history, and then progress 
on, as facts and circumstances may permit. 



CHAPTER VI. 



I WOULD not be considered an egotist, 
sounding my own trumpet ; but I would try- 
to bring glory to God, and good to young 
Christians, while relating some events, which, 
in the providence of God, it has been my lot 
to experience, in my pilgrim journey towards 
heaven. I have long believed that a faithful 
record of a few sketches of the most important 
incidents and facts, relative to our experience, 
labors, sufferings, ^c, might be rendered a 
blessing to thousands, who, for want of this 
instruction, have become discouraged, shrunk 
from duty, and returned again to the beggarly 
elements of the world. 

After the Lord converted my soul, I soon 
felt strong impressions on my mind, that it 
was my duty to preach the gospel : but instead 
of following these impressions, having a strong 
desire for a southern climate, I resorted to Sa- 
vannah, in Georgia, and spent two winters, after 
I was convinced, that God had called me to 
prepare for His work. But God did not prosper 



yO MEMOIR OF 

me in this Jonah voyage ; neither temporally, 
nor Fpiritually. Every thing worked against 
my wishes; besides I was so deeply afflicted 
with the yellow fever, on my return home, that 
none of my friends expected that I should re- 
cover. This affliction, with others, humbled 
me, as well as left me almost penniless. 

I now promised to obey God, and follow the 
openings of Providence ; and after applying 
my mind to study, as much of the time as I 
could, consistently with my circumstances, for 
about four years, I offered myself to the church 
as a preacher. They gave me license, and re- 
commended me to the Annual Conference. I 
was received on trial, and sent to Manchester 
Circuit, in Connecticut, to labor in connection 
with Br. A. L. Fletcher, who has since left this 
world, I trust, for a better one. The manner 
in which God blessed my labors, soon convinced 
me that I was not mistaken in my calling. Br. 
Fletcher was a good man, and an untiring la- 
borer, but very eccentric. He cared but little 
whether he pleased or displeased the people. 
He was determined to make a move among 
them, even at the expense of good feeling; be- 
lieving he had better make them mad, than not to 
make them feel at all. This was a year of great 
anti-masonic excitement ; and he, being a mason, 
was requested by the brethren to renounce it in 
the pulpit, one Sunday morning, in Mansfield; 
but he refused to comply with their wishes, and 
consequently vacated the pulpit. This overture 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 99 

was the means of dividing his and my labors, 
on part of the circuit, during the remainder of 
the year. Br. Fletcher resorted to the old 
meeting-house in Mansfield, and I continued in 
the new one. This division of the work in 
Mansfield, led us to work separately, in other 
towns, except on the Sabbath ; but the Lord 
blessed our labors. He blessed me in raising 
up a new class at one of the factories in Coven- 
try. 

Here, in the midst of the revival, the wicked, 
one evening, took one of the wheels from my 
carriage, and raised it up to the top of the fac- 
tory ; but thinking probably I might obtain it, 
they afterwards hid it at some distance behind 
a high hill. Here the hand of persecution was 
first raised against me and my carriage ; but it 
has never ceased down to the present time, 
which has been more than sixteen years, xlt 
the AVillimantic Factory village, I commenced 
operations this year ; had some revival, and 
the people commenced building their meeting- 
house, which, in consequence of the great de- 
cline in the manufacturing business, much em- 
barrassed the brethren. Here the Orthodox 
minister reproved me sharply for preaching in 
the house of one of his members, without first 
asking him. This difficulty, I fear, was the 
means of breaking up the reformation, which 
had commenced with a blessed prospect. This 
year also, I went into the Congregational parish 
in the west part of Mansfield to preach ; the 



100 MEMOIR or 

minister of which accosted me one day rather 
abruptly, and asked, " what business I had 
there? *' I told him I wanted forty good mem- 
bers, in that part of the town, to give perma- 
nency to the little cliurch in the east part of the 
town, and if I mistake not, the Lord gave us a 
class of forty-four, that year. Some of the 
sisters of his church began to speak in our 
meetings, which he strongly opposed, in private 
and public ; this led him and myself into a long 
discussion, whether the Scriptures granted fe- 
males a privilege to speak in a public meeting. 
The next year, I was appointed to Tol- 
land Circuit, in connection with Brs. Heze- 
kiah Ramsdell and Paul Townsend. This cir- 
cuit included, this year, all that belonged to the 
east part of Manchester circuit, last year, with 
the addition of several more towns. It was a 
large six weeks circuit. When the new preach- 
ers first came on to this circuit, they were very 
popular among the people in Tolland, and I 
was quite unpopular, having taught school five 
months in the centre of the town, only two 
w^inters previous. They very much doubted 
whether I could preach. On this account, 
they requested Br. Ramsdell, the preacher in 
charge, not to have me preach in Tolland ; but 
to keep me down in that part of the circuit, 
where 1 had preached one year already. This 
however, was not satisfactory to the people in 
that part. They having heard that two new 
and interesting preachers had come on to the 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 101 

circuit, wished to hear them at least their pro- 
portion of the time. This to me was like 
scudding under hare poles ; but what was worse 
still, I soon learned that my colleagues thought 
the people could not support but two preachers 
on the circuit. This I knew was a hint for me 
to look out for quarters. I did look to the 
Stronghold for help. I cried unto the Lord to 
direct me, I looked back upon the last year, 
when I enjoyed revival after revival, and now, 
thought I, no one wants me. Must I leave the 
field ? shall I go down ? I feared this approach- 
ing crisis would be a turning point with me. 
Amid these trials, I threw myself upon Jesus, ' 
and hung my hopes upon his cross ; and while 
pleading for grace and direction, I believe the 
Lord again renewed the evidence of sanctifica- 
tion in my soul. Previous to this the preacher 
in charge had conversed with me about my stiff- 
ness and preciseness in preaching, and concern- 
ing my apparent lack of vivacity or interest. 
He wanted me to break away from these fetters, 
and launch out into the work. In this state of 
things, our first quarterly meeting was held; 
and, sure enough, a move was made to have 
one of the preachers removed, for the want of 
ability to support three. I knew this meant 
me, — and told the Conference that I could not 
leave under these embarrassing circumstances. 
The field was large enough, and I must stay. 
I did stay. The new baptism I had received, 
and the determined resolution I had formed to 



108 ME5I0IR or 

go to iDork, urged me on to action. I visited 
day after day, from house to house, preaching 
in every new place that opened, filling every 
Sabbath appointment, as usual, excepting Tol- 
Jand. I made it my home at Br. Keney's, in 
Bolton ; hardly ever staying, however, more 
than one night at a time, on my return from 
round the circuit. Here a new class was 
formed the year before. I took hold without 
the co-operation of my colleagues, and obtained 
on subscription all the money I could for a 
meeting-house, and succeeded so well, that the 
brethren soon- erected a temple of worship, 
where the people have ever since enjoyed the 
stated means of grace. I also went up to 
West Stafford, and asked the little class, if they 
had any place w^iere we could worship Sab- 
baths. They said they could have the tJniver- 
salist meeting-house. I told them I dare not 
go in, unless they could get a lease of it, know- 
ing that should God revive his work, it would 
be a signal for them to turn us out. The Uni- 
versalists granted them a lease of it for three 
years. Preaching was immediately commenced, 
and a revival soon followed ; it spread into the 
East parish, and, as the result, the church in 
the West parish was much enlarged, a new 
church formed in the East parish, and a re- 
spectable meeting-house built near the pool, 
where the ordinances of the gospel have been 
administered ever since. In this revival, I 
shoujd think that forty families of Universal- 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 103 

ists and Nothingarians were converted to God, 
and they have made good members in the 
household of fiiith. There was nothing more 
said about my leaving the circuit. While this 
revival was in progress, Tolland pulpit was 
opened for poor me, and so all was harmony 
again during the remainder of the year. While 
the revival was progressing, I had an especial 
call to go to the town of Somers, and spend 
the remainder of this year, where a powerful 
revival had commenced. I applied for permis- 
sion to leave, as some were anxious to have me 
leave at the commencement of the year. But 
they could not then spare me, — the tables were 
turned, for the Lord had given me favor in 
sight of the people all over the circuit. I 
mention this thing, because, had I given way 
to the embarrassments thrown in my way, — 
yielding to the wishes of a few interested peo- 
ple in Tolland, who had prejudiced the preach- 
ers against me, probably I should have sunk to 
rise no more, as a preacher of the gospel ; but, 
throwing myself upon Christ for guidance, I 
obtained complete victory, and can number 
that year with one of my best. 

I would here counsel our brethren to bear 
with young and inexperienced preachers ; they 
need your sympathies and prayers. 

We reported this year on the circuit, about 
five hundred conversions, and between two 
and three hundred united with our church. 
We lost the fruit of one revival, which com- 



104 MEMOIR OF 

menced through the instrumentality of the 
Methodists, at a camp-meeting in Willington, 
for the want of lime to gather the fruit ; but 
the Baptists reaped a rich harvest from it. . 

At the close of this year, Br. Ramsdell and 
myself got it into our heads to petition the 
Conference to let us go together on East Wind- 
sor Circuit, and agreeably to our wishes, we 
were appointed there. After having travelled 
round this new circuit two or three times, I 
was greatly disappointed in relation to its ability 
to support preaching, and in the prospect of 
doing good. I learned, after having preached a 
very pointed discourse against dead formality, 
at Ware-House-Point, in which sermon I cut 
off the ears of some proud Episcopalians, who 
then hung upon that little church, like a dead 
carcase upon a living one, that I should not 
probably suit the people in that place. In 
short, I learned that one of the fearful brethren 
who wanted a minister that would please the 
Episcopals, had already been to the Presiding 
Elder, and requested him to remove me, and 
send them another man. Another circum- 
stance occurred about this time, which served 
to lower me in the estimation of the people, in 
this place, the performance of which I have re- 
gretted many a time. Br. Ramsdell had the 
charge of the circuit, but we both had authority 
to baptize. Some of the converts at this place 
asked me to baptize them ; I readily consented ; 
appointed the meeting, and then rode off after 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 105 

Br. Ramsdell to come, and assist me in this 
work ; but he refused. No one could now de- 
scribe my feelings. Thought I, what shall I 
do ? — the appointment is given out, and the 
people will assemble, and I must return alone. 
When the time came for the meeting to com- 
mence, an inquiry was made, where is Br, 
Ramsdell ? I explained as well as I could, but 
by this time, my feelings were indescribable ; 
however, I went into the desk and preached a 
sermon, but had no liberty; then I could hardly 
look any one in the face, thinking every one 
felt ashamed of my performance ; but on we 
went, down the banks of the old Connecticut, 
and crowds of people followed. I now learned 
that about twenty wished to be baptized — some, 
by having water poured on their heads, some by 
sprinkling, and some by immersion. Having 
never baptized any person by any of these 
modes, I soon became much agitated in mind, 
while the people were all gazing, and the boats 
cheering us in the river. My inward emotion 
was, what shall I do? I first took a young 
brother by the hand and led him into the water 
to immerse him ; but not venturing far into the 
river, the water was so shallow, that when I 
plunged him into it, it was with much difficulty 
that I could cover him with the water ; and in 
my exertion, by some means I lost my hold of 
his hands, and tried to bring him upon his feet 
by his collar ; and such a splashing in the wa- 
ter I hope never to witness again, and such 
*9 



106 MEMOIR OF 

deep mortification, I hope it will never be my 
lot to suffer more ! But I got through the best 
way I could ; called for my horse, left the place, 
and as the providence of God has directed, I 
think I never have seen that beautiful village 
since. 

Things having rather worked against me, at 
the most popular appointment on the circuit, I 
now came to the conclusion that it was about 
time for me to find a new field of labor. To 
bring this about, I took the following course. 
I sat down and wrote a letter to Wales, the 
town in which I was reared up, requesting 
them to give out an appointment for me to 
preach to them, the Sabbath that the pulpit 
would not be occupied — as it was then only 
occupied every other Sabbath. I repaired to 
Tolland and engaged a local preacher to supply 
my place two Sabbaths, and journeyed on to 
my new field of operations. 

The Sabbath came, and the Lord gave me a 
good time in preaching ; so much encouraged 
was I, that I gave out meetings for every 
night during the week, together with one for 
the next Sabbath at a school-house. At the 
close of the second Sabbath, the excitement 
had become general in the town, and there had 
been a few conversions. I then, wrote to the 
Presiding Elder for a discharge from my cir- 
cuit. He granted it upon condition that I 
would release my claims on the circuit, and 
look out for my support where I labored. To 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON; 



107 



this 1 consented. As soon as the Baptists, 
and Universalists, learned that I was going to 
stay in Wales, a violent persecution arose 
against me : but the work of the Lord went on 
throughout the town, and extended into some 
of the adjoining towns. As the fruit of this 
revival, we gathered into the church about 
one hundred and twenty-five, amidst the fiercest 
opposition I hardly ever witnessed. 

The next year, I was appointed to this place 
with Br. Joel Knight. Our circuit extended 
this year to Worcester, embracing in all 
eighteen towns, including a new field occupied, 
the year before, by Br. D. S. King — a Home 
Missionary. On this circuit, we labored very 
hard ; we formed several little classes, and were 
instrumental in enlarging others, where they 
now have permanent churches. Had this cir- 
cuit been provided for, as it ought to have been 
the following year, Methodism would have taken 
deep root in some places, where, for the want 
of attention, the little classes soon withered 
away, after we left ; but most of these places 
since have sprung up again, and begin to bud 
and blossom. This is especially true of Bar- 
ry, Oakham, Rutland, and Leicester. This 
year we gathered in a goodly number of souls 
in Barry, Spencer, New Worcester, Stur- 
bridge, Brimfield, and Clapville. We also 
gathered souls into the fold this year in the 
towns of Wales, Stafford, and Union. It was 
from this field of labor, that Br. Scott, our Pre- 



lOS MEMOIR or 

siding Elder, wished to remove me in the midst 
of unparalleled prosperity. This summons I 
promptly refused to obey; for which refusal, I 
was cited to nppear at the next annual confer- 
ence, to answer for my non-compliance. 

Fearing the result of disobeying his man- 
date, I made a hearty confession to him that I 
had done wrong, and he withdrew his com- 
plaint ; but made me suffer the effect of my dis- 
obedience severely by giving me an appoint- 
ment the next year on the Hebron circuit, 
where there was but little prospect of doing 
good, and where there was no probability of 
my obtaining a comfortable support. This cir- 
cuit had been divided into two, at the last con- 
ference, and an expensive family and myself 
were sent on to the north part of it, where the 
societies were small, with but little prospect of 
an enlargement, at present, in consequence of 
the excitement that then prevailed on the sub- 
ject of temperance. 

Dr. Fisk had lectured on this subject upon 
the circuit, and had very much displeased the 
brethren, on one part of it, by the course he had 
taken. My predecessor also was decided against 
the practice of drinking intoxicating drinks. 
Many of the brethren, all over the circuit, were 
arraigned against the temperance cause. At one 
of the appointments, one of the stewards came 
to me, on my arrival in the place, and informed 
me that it would not do to preach against the 
practice of drinking in that place. I asked him 



ELIZABETH AN.N MOULTO.X. 109 

the reason, and he said the people would not 
hear a man who preached against it ; and also 
that I should break down the church, if I per- 
sisted. Said I, at once, *' if such a course will 
break down the church, let it corne down." 
This only made me the more anxious to charge 
home upon the enemy. The first Sabbath I 
commenced in Chatham, I touched rather easy 
upon the subject, which did not much frighten 
the people ; but soon I began to thunder in such 
strong terms against the use of intoxicating 
drinks in this place, that the fiercest opposition 
was raised against me. The brethren not only 
brought the bread and cheese law to bear heavily 
against me, but defiled the meeting-house with 
filth, on the Sabbath they supposed I should 
preach there. One of the brethren, being a 
justice of the peace, wrote a long letter to me, 
charging me with slandering the brethren of 
Chatham, and of disturbing the peace of soci- 
ety ! and threatened, unless I came and made 
satisfaction, that the difficulty should be settled 
before the Civil Court. It passed ofT, however, 
with their punishing me, by withholding my 
support. Here I much blamed my colleague, 
who was a temperance man ; but as he was 
very poor, I conclude he feared that if he 
seconded my efforts, his family must suffer. I 
applied to Br. Scott to release me from the re- 
s{)onsibilities of this charge, as there were 
other openings, which I could fill with accept- 
ance ; but he refused, as I had not, as yet, suf- 



110 MEMOia OF 

fered enough for my disobedience to him. So 
I held on through the ye;tr, being afflicted with 
the same anti-temperance feeling in both of the 
appointments in Hebron. 

In this state of things, I introduced my wife 
to the people in the month of December, 1832. 

I have now come back to the point from 
which I digressed, and will pursue the history 
of the subject of this memoir, as well as loan, 
with the materials I have. I observed before,' 
that she travelled with me most of the time 
during this year, as did Br. Rogers, my colleague; 
neither of us at this time, having any house in 
which to put our families. During two or three 
winter months, my colleague hired a house, and 
I obtained board for ray wife, a few weeks. But 
most of the time we were going from place to 
place ; not knowing in the morning where we 
should lodcre at nisrht. 

Some of the people being prejudiced against 
us on account of my temperance principles, we 
did not feel free to call upon them. The 
people's hearts were so closed up against sup- 
porting the gospel, that it was not only a scene 
of continual perplexity, but almost discouraged 
me from thinking I could do them good. 

One wealthy farmer, who was a brother in 
our church in the south-west part of East 
Hampton, who, I think, had no children, was 
so unwilling to support the gospel, that I could 
hardly endure his niggardly spirit. Having 
heard that he had paid nothing for preaching. 



ELIZABETH A^:M MOULTON. Ill 

?X the closing up of the year, I called on him, 
and he offered me one dollar. (There were 
then three married preachers on the circuit — 
Br. Heath, Br. Rogers, and myself) I asked 
him if that was all that he was calculating to 
give for our services during the year ? He 
said it was. I told him to keep his dollar to 
himself! Another circumstance occurred in 
Hebron worthy of notice : an aged father in the 
gospel, who had a good farm, and a large stock 
of cattle, with a thousand dollars, or more, at 
interest, said, that he had always paid twenty- 
five cents per quarter, or one dollar per year, 
ever since he had been a Methodist, and kept 
the preachers whenever they called upon him. 
My wife, and myself, called upon him to spend 
a night, as we were travelling from place to 
place. This visit happened soon after we were 
married. In the morning, being about to de- 
part, he gave me twenty-five cents. I asked 
him what he designed by this offering ? He 
said this was his regular quarterage. Said I, 
*' this is not all that you intend for the three 
preachers, for their three months labor." He 
said, it was all that he could afford to give. 1 
then refused to accept of his donation, sharply 
reproving him for his parsimonious spirit ; and 
left the house, after telling him that he was not 
a fit person to belong to the church of God, 
&LC. My proceedings with this family, brought 
a severe trial upon my companion. The man- 
ner of my reproof was so exceptionable to her, 



112 MEMOIR OF 

that she thought she must rebuke me before 
the family ; but I justified my course, consider- 
ing the circumstances. So discouraged was 
my dear wife at my course with this family, 
having but just commenced her warfare with 
me, that I did not know as she would ever rise 
above it; and so deeply did this affair afflict my 
feelings, with other discouragements, that I 
feared, for a while, that the whole would en- 
tirely upset me and my companion together. 

From this little twenty-five cents, offered me 
as a donation, by one of our brethren, arose 
the deepest mental conflict, ever suffered by 
myself and companion, during the almost 
eleven years which we shared each other's 
trials and conflicts, in this vale of tears. But 
the Lord gave us grace to weather the storm, 
and to continue laboring unto the end of the 
year. For our services on Hebron Circuit this 
year, we received in all eighty dollars. 

The journal proceeds : 

Dec. 11, 1832. — "I was united to Mr. 
Moulton, to share in his vicissitudes, until 
death shall sever our bond of union. The cere- 
mony was performed after Mr. Moulton had 
preached a short sermon. It was a solemn 
time. Many tears of affection were shed. The 
Lord approbated our proceedings by blessing 
our souls and making us happy in Him." 

Dec. 12. — " Travelled to Wales through 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 113 

mud and water, and attended meeting at Br. 
Squier's. We had a good meeting and a good 
visit with these friends." 

Dec. 13. — " Left Wales and arrived at Staf- 
ford, where Mr. Moulton spent about two 
weeks, having made a change with Br. Hay- 
ward, who was then their stationed preacher. 
Here I attended meeting with Mr. M, al- 
most every night. The brethren were much 
revived, and the prospects were good for a re- 
vival." 

Dec. 19. — "Mr. M. went to > his sister 
Leonard's, and made a visit: had great liberty 
in speaking to the people. I'here were pre- 
sent, at this meeting, two Baptist clergymen." 

Dec. 20. — " Started from Br. Leonard's, this 
morning, visiting on the way. Mr. M. preached 
in the evening, at a school-house in West 
Stafford. Meetings were continued every 
night until Monday, 27th. We then journeyed 
on towards our circuit, and put up at night at 
father Keney's, in Bolton, the home of Mr. 
Moulton when he travelled Tolland circuit. 
Here we met Br. Hay ward, who preached to us 
in the evening. We had a good time among 
Mr. Moulton's old friends." 

Dec 25. — " Arrived at Br. Strong's, in East 
Hampton, on Hebron circuit. Here I tarried 
a few days to rest, and Mr. M. proceeded 
around the circuit." 

}0 



114 MEMOIR OF 

Di^c. 31. — ''Went with Mr. Moulton to a 
wedding in East Hampton : this was the first 
wedding ceremony that he ever performed." 

Jan. 5, 1833. — " Went to Hebron, and read 
some very afflicting news in the Herald with re- 
gard to Rev. E. K. Avery. In Hebron Hollow 
class, there is a prospect of revival ; some have 
already found their Savior. After travelling 
round the circuit a few weeks, with my hus- 
band, doing what little we could to advance the 
interests of religion, we started, Feb. 11, to visit 
Mr. Moulton's sister in West Windsor. Here 
we enjoyed a good, and, I trust, a profitable 
visit. Aly husband preached twice, and un- 
worthy me, tried to exhort the people to repent- 
ance ; the prospect was very good for a revival 
— several rose for prayers. On our return, Mr. 
M. spent the Sabbatli at East Hartford, 
(a town connected with Manchester circuit, 
where he received his first appointment from 
conference;) and then returned again to Br. 
Strong's, where I first tarried when I arrived on 
the circuit." 

Feb. 22. — " My mind, for some days, has 
been powerfully impressed to write. I fear I 
have neglected duty in this respect. I praise 
God for some peace this day : but O, how I 
long to feel more of that vital principle of love 
in ray soul, from day to day, that duty may not 
seem a load, nor worship prove a tasli !" 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 115 

Feb. 25. — *' Resolved to live nearer to Ciod. 
I have peace in believing — I was blest this 
morning in family devotion." 

The above is the faintest expression of God's 
goodness to her soul, that I have noticed in her 
writings. I conclude that she was weighed 
down through manifold temptations. It not 
being yet one year since she buried her first 
husband, and coming from Greenwich, where 
the people were enjoying prosperity, and where 
they had shown her every expression of 
kindness, to a place where the people were 
cold, and appeared distant towards their preach- 
er; contending for their rights to use intoxi- 
cating drinks ; and the administration of her 
newly married husband, being so different from 
that of her former husband, it is not a cause of 
wonder, that all these discouragements weighed 
down her spirits, and produced seasons of 
melancholy. But she passed through them all 
like a christian hero ; hardly ever unbosoming 
her trials and troubles to any one, not even to 
her husband ; believing undoubtedly that every 
preacher of the gospel has a sufficiency of 
trials, growing out of his relations to the 
church, &c., without being additionally bur- 
dened with his companion's woes. When temp- 
tations and trials rolled in upon her like a flood, 
she always resorted to a throne of grace, and 
found immediate deliverance, or grace to sup- 
port her in them. Her trials, rising from various 



116 MEMOIR OF 

sources on Hebron circuit, were all sanctified 
to her, for her spiritual good ; teaching her 
many lessons which proved profitable to her in 
after life. Elizabeth ever looked back upon 
this year as one of peculiar trial, embarrass- 
ment, and affliction. But God's dealings to- 
wards her the past year, were only a dark cloud 
that eclipsed her prospects for the moment, that 
she might learn to distrust all sublunary things, 
and put her entire confidence in the God of her 
salvation. 

The time is now drawing near when her star 
of hope, which had somewhat faded, with re- 
gard to her usefulness, during the past year, 
was about to shine again with peculiar lustre. 
She learned, in the change which was about to 
be effected, that it would not do 

" To judge the Lord by feeble sense, 
But trust him for his grace ; 
Behind a frowning Providence, 
He hides a smiling face." 

The next year was one in which the Sun of 
Righteousness never shone brighter upon her 
soul; her hopes and courage never were stronger, 
and her usefulness never greater. During the 
past year, I obtained many enemies in and out 
of the church, mostly by my ultra measures on 
the subject of temperance ; while my dear com- 
panion, by her mild and pleasant course, gained 
the esteem and approbation of all who became 
acquainted with her. We both learned a les- 



ELIZABETH ANN' MOULTON. 



ii^ 



son here, by experience, which proved very 
useful to us in after life. And although we 
considered this the most unprofitable year we 
ever had, so far as the salvation of souls was 
concerned ; yet, we ever looked back upon it, 
as one of the most profitable, so far as the 
learning a lesson of human nature was de- 
sirable. 

The approaching conference held its session 
in Boston. After a long and tedious session of 
almost three weeks, I received my appointment 
to labor on Gill circuit, in connection with Br. 
Stevens, who was received on trial this year. I 
then returned to Lunenburg for my companion, 
and hastened with her and her youngest sister, 
to my anticipated field of labor. This circuit 
was located on the mountains, the west side of 
the Connecticut river, — some one hundred and 
thirty miles from Boston. The very name of 
Gill circuit sounded like death to us ; but in 
the name of Jesus, with our lives in our hands, 
we started ; reached Gill, and put up with Br. 
Munn. We here learned that there was no 
house provided for us to live in. I therefore 
left Gill, and went to Coleraine, and hired a 
convenient house to accommodate myself and 
Br. Stevens. Here we found ourselves in the 
midst of a warm-hearted, loving church of 
young converts, who had been gathered together 
through the instrumentality of Br. Colburn, the 
far-famed mathematician 

As seen as our fam.ilies were settled, we 
*10 



118 MEMOIR OF 

surveyed the dimensions of our fcircuit, and 

learned that it extended from Gill, to Florida ; 

embracing no less than twelve towns, with the 

most diversified scenery imaginable. On the 

east, lies Gill, Greenfield, and Deerfield, beside 

the beautiful Connecticut river, with its smooth, 

polished surface, gliding along within its banks. 

As we move along towards Coleraine, afler 

passing a few miles through fertile fields, we 

commence a gradual ascent, winding our way, 

for miles, beside a purling stream, with cragged 

rocks and peaks, on either side ; ornamented 

with the stubborn beech and maple ; — - while 

the rushing stream, rolling between the mossy 

rock and then dashing upon the ledge below, 

strikes the contemplative mind with wonder, 

leading it to adore the Author of those huore 

. . . 

piles, and sunken cavities. Ascending the top, 

we inhale the pure mountain air, and view the 
beautiful scenery of nature on every hand ; 
then descending down a stream running ano- 
ther way, we reach the beautiful village of 
Coleraine, lying beside a lovely stream. De- 
scending this river as far as Shelburn falls, we 
then follow up the Deerfield river, at the foot of 
the mountains, until we arrive at Charlemont. 
Then we proceed on to Zoar, and Florida, 
where lay, on either side the river, the most 
massive piles of huge mountains, and cragged 
rocks, that I ever witnessed. We then cross 
over an almost unbeaten path, to the town of 
Rotve, which lies on the height of the moun- 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 119 

tains; then through Heath down again to Cole- 
raine, taking a view of Catamount Hill, on the 
top of which is a large den where those animals 
found a shelter from the dog and hunter : about 
which den dwell the rustic inhabitants in the 
most rude and uncultivated state. I was in- 
formed that a man, pursuing a catamount 
into his den, and seeing him looking out, fired 
at him, and so terrified the animal, that in run- 
ning out, he passed between the feet of the 
hunter, taking him upon his back. Thus he 
continued his flight down the ledges, without 
injury to the affrighted rider. 

Passing on through Coleraine to Leyden, we 
find the most hilly and uneven course ever trod 
by man, if I may judge. Having reached Ber- 
nardstown, near the old Connecticut, we have 
finished the borders of the circuit. Our location 
in Coleraine was very agreeable to my com- 
panion. We commenced operations by visit- 
ing the societies, Elizabeth going with me, 
when practicable, until we had surveyed the 
whole field. We found that the Unionists — 
a set of seceders from the Congregationalists 
— with a Mr. Truar, for their leader, had 
made considerable progress in this vicinity ; 
and especially in Coleraine. Her journal pro- 
ceeds : 

July 25, 1833. — " Our prospects are good 
on the circuit ; several have already expe- 
rienced religion. This is an evening of some 



120 MEMOIR OF 

trial, but I feel a perfect reliance on God : He 
has hitherto been my helper, and shall I now 
distrust his mercy to deliver ? No ! I feel a 
sweet consolation while I believe. O how 
much will faith accomplish : it will remove 
mountains of sin, and enable the soul to rise 
as on the wings of an eagle, aiid bear us to^ 
wards the port of endless life, amidst the sor- 
rows and trials of human life V 

July 26. — " This is a morning of great peace 
to my soul. Not a cloud of trouble intervenes. 
O the wonderful goodness of God ; how great ! 
May I ever trust in him with unwavering faith ; 
for I view in him an unbounded ocean of love 
divine, into which I long to plunge. O my 
God, help me to follow thee fully, as did Joshua 
and Caleb of old." 

The subject of this narrative never said 
much about her own public labors. Her diary 
— a specimen of which you have — it will be 
observed, has reference, mostly, to the work of 
God's Spirit on her own heart, and the strug- 
gles and trials through which she was called to 
pass. Hence, in order to narrate her usefulness 
in the cause of Christ, I must identify my 
movements with her's. And in doing this, 
should the reader think that I wish to sound 
my own trumpet, to gain glory of men, I 
would meekly say, " God forbid that I should 
glory save in the cross of Christ !" I care but 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 121 

little what the critic may say, if, in presenting 
this work to the public, I may but magnify the 
riches of divine mercy, in the great work of 
grace performed through our feeble instru- 
mentality, on this circuit, during the year. 
I have long thought, that a succinct history of 
all the revivals, which God has wrought through 
our feeble efforts, might be the means of ad- 
vancing the Redeemer's kingdom ; and now, as 
the Providence of God has opened the way by 
the removal of a faithful laborer from my em- 
brace, my duty both to God and man seems to 
require, that I should just sketch those revivals, 
in which my companion took such a deep in- 
terest. 

No one who was acquainted with Elizabeth, 
doubts but that she was instrumental in help- 
ing forward every revival of religion, in which 
she ever labored. One sagacious divine, of the 
Congregational order, said, to one of his friends, 
" that the great secret of his (the writer's) suc- 
cess, consisted in the labors of his companion; for 
there is nothing peculiar in him." This same 
sentiment was adopted by thousands of friends, 
and by most of my enemies, who envied my 
success. One thing was always true : her ex- 
hortations were so drawing and melting, and 
mine so cutting and piercing, that she received 
the praise, and I, the frowns from the multitude. 
After the Lord had helped me to wound the 
heart, the people would sit with almost breath- 
less attention, listening to her exhortations. 



122 MEMOIR. 

while she poured in the bahn, to heal up their 
broken hearts. Thus God had fitted her, and 
given her strength, to labor with me, for al- 
most eleven years, on some of the largest cir- 
cuits in the New England conference. 



CHAPTER VII. 



The good work of God commenced with us 
in Coleraine, in July : so great was the interest, 
that we held some of our meetings out of 
doors: and to the surprise of most of our rising 
church, a number of the Unionists presented 
themselves at our Jordan for baptism, and 
united with our church. This course led the 
two preachers, who had formed a circuit in this 
region, to abandon the remainder of their 
church in Coleraine; after which, I formed a 
class called the Unionist class, and appointed 
Rev. Thomas Marcy leader. This probably 
was the means of bringing him the sooner into 
the ranks of the ministry. Our church con- 
tinued to prosper throughout the year. Eliza- 
beth always attended with them Sabbaths, 
when not with me on the circuit. I learned, 
that their Sabbath prayer-meetings became as 
interesting, and drew out as many people, as 
did the preaching meetings. This society was 
dearly loved by Elizabeth, and the society 
highly respected her for her work sake; and 



124 MEMOIR OF 

when compelled to leave them, it was like 
severing the tender chords of her heart. Many 
who were young converts in Coleraine, when 
Elizabeth was there, who have now become 
strong men and women in Israel, will bless 
God for such a counsellor as was E. ; for they 
then looked up to her for instruction, as a 
pupil looks to his teacher. I fear Coleraine has 
never since seen such days. Early in the fall, 
we arranged our plans for a general campaign, 
on our large six weeks circuit; throwing in 
evening lectures wherever there were calls for 
them. When the work took effect, we held on 
every night and visited day-times, as long as 
circumstances called for the labor ; always 
bringing in our wives to our help. This fall, 
we held a camp-meeting on our circuit, in 
Bernardston. Many souls were converted here. 
Elizabeth labored and toiled for her friends as 
usual, night and day, holding up the doctrine 
of entire sanctification, from tent to tent. This 
meeting gave a new spring to the work of re- 
vival, all over the circuit, and prepared myself 
and wife for labor. 

Her diary continues : 

Sept. 16, 1833. — "Attended camp-meet- 
ing at Bernardston, which was visited with the 
power of God, in the salvation of many souls. 
The prospects on the circuit are good for a 
general reformation. Many have already found 
the Savior and joined us on probation." 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 125 

Oct. 8. — ''I have attended two protracted 
meetings, at which there were about forty con- 
versions. At the meeting in Leyden, but few 
were converted ; but Mr. Moulton has organ- 
ized two new classes there." 

The circumstances in Leyden were these : 
when I first went to Leyden, there was a small 
class of Methodists in the north-west part of 
the town, who worshipped in their old school- 
house. There was a large meeting-house in 
the middle of the town, which belonged to 
almost all sorts of folks ; it was forsaken by all, 
and no regular meeting was held in town, ex- 
cept the prayer-meeting held by the few Meth- 
odists. The people offered me the house for 
circuit preaching; I accepted, on condition 
that they would pay us the small sum of $50 
for preaching half the time during the remain- 
der of the conference year. They agreeing to 
my proposals, preaching commenced. We soon 
learned that our Methodist class would pay no- 
thing; neither would many of them come to 
meeting in the meeting-house. 

The leader, then a rum-drinker, being a man 
of much influence in the town, had persuaded 
his class not to go to the meeting-house; but con- 
tinue on as usual their prayer-meetings. Call- 
ing for an explanation of his course, he said, 
they had previously worshipped at the meeting- 
liouse, but could enjoy no liberty there. Fur- 
thermore, he believed God had cursed the house 

U 



126 MEMOIR OF 

and forsaken it, and that the devil had taken 
possession of it; for that base-viol which was 
used in the house, was the devil's fiddle. After 
much labor with him, and some of his class, 
we preferred charges for schism against the 
leading members of the class, which the quar- 
terly conference sustained. As a final result, 
six charges were preferred against me, which 
followed me, as I suppose, to conference. 

Having prepared the way, and removed a 
difficulty, which had been of long standing, 
and which none of my predecessors dared to 
touch, the Lord poured out His Spirit the fol- 
lowing year in such effasions as were never 
known before in that place, nor since. 

In all of this affair, my companion submitted 
the whole to God, believing He would overrule 
all for His glory. When she learned that my 
character was suffering, by the hand of perse- 
cution, it only nerved her up for the warfare, 
knowing that God would not suffer the innocent 
long to endure without rescue. 

The journal proceeds : 

Nov. 24. — " This day I have spent most of 
my time in reading and praying, which, I find, 
has been very profitable to my mind. For a 
number of weeks past, I trust my soul has been 
advancing in the divine life. My evidence of 
sanctification is brighter than for months be- 
fore. I praise God for a fullness of divine love. 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 127 

O, may I ever pursue the path of holiness, with 
unabating zeal, and never he found on the 
back ground. 1 have to acknowledge that 
hitherto, I have manifested too great backward- 
ness in speaking upon this all important sub- 
ject." 

Dec. 5, 1833. —" This day find^ me rather 
indisposed in body — so much so, that I am 
unable to attend a public means of grace. But 
blessed be God, for peace at home, and in my 
own soul. I find that God's grace is sufficient 
for me under every trial. It is now more than 
nine years since I found the Savior to be pre- 
cious, and I can truly say, that I never found 
him to be a barren wilderness to my soul. O, 
how unworthy to enjoy the smiles of a recon- 
ciled God ! All glory to his exalted name. He 
stoops so low, as to bless the most unworthy of 
His creatures, when they come aright to Him. 
O my Father in Heaven, bless me with all 
thy fullness, that I may be prepared for useful- 
ness, and glory hereafter ! Amen." 

From December to March, my companion 
was engaged with me most of the time at pro- 
tracted meetings, and therefore did not write 
much. Our house was shut up, for weeks to- 
gether, during this cold winter ; and my wife 
was laboring with me every day and every 
night, for the salvation of souls. So efficient 
were her labors in the female department, in 



128 MEMOIR OF 

our protracted meetings, especially in new 
places, that I thought we could not progress 
successfully without her aid ; and never was a 
person more willing to leave all, under every 
circumstance, to work for the salvation of 
souls, than was Elizabeth. 

The journal proceeds : 

March 16: Sunday Morning. — "I feel 
under great obligations to my Heavenly Bene- 
factor for the mercies of the past week. This 
morning finds me surrounded with many bless- 
ings. Although not permitted to attend the 
more public means of grace, in consequence of 
ill health, yet, I do feel the power of that grace, 
and the influence of that Spirit on my heart 
this morning, which has been my support for 
nearly ten years. While pursuing the History 
of Methodism, this morning, in reading the 
abridged lives of a Wesley, and a Coke, my 
heart was melted into tenderness, and I could 
not refrain from weeping. Again, I took the 
third volume of Dr. Clarke's li^e, and read an 
account of the happy death of Mrs. Butter- 
worth, and a letter from Dr. C. to her hus- 
band, which very much affected me. But the 
cause of my present feelings, is in some mea- 
sure, owing to my situation. I sometimes view 
death very near. I am apt to shrink at suffer- 
ing, although I feel that death would be the 
gate to endless joy. I, nevertheless, have a de- 



kLltXRETH ANN MOULTON. 129 

sire to live, if I can be useful. The last six 
months of my life, have witnessed a happy era; 
I have almost incessantly enjoyed the witness 
of the Spirit. I have also witnessed the con- 
version of many happy scores of precious 
souls. To God be all the glory !" 

March 33. — " i have enjoyed a good sea- 
son to-day, although not permitted to attend the 
house of worship. I am under great obliga- 
tions to God for the blessings received during 
the past week. Health and prosperity have 
been my portion each day. What will be the 
result of the ensuing week, I know not. I 
leave all to Him, who does all things well. I 
am assured that the willing and obedient shall 
eat the good of the land. O that I may be one 
of that happy number!" 

Sunday, March 30. — *' This day, I find 
myself under strong obligations to serve God 
more faithfully than I have, for nearly ten 
years that are past. I know not what is before 
me, but I leave all with the Lord, that He may 
do as seemeth to Him good in His sight. I 
look back upon the past conference year with 
supreme delight. The Lord hath wrought 
wonders on our circuit. Hundreds of souls 
have been converted to God. To Him be all 
the glory. Our three preachers, Brs. Stevens, 
Banister, and my husband, have labored with 
unabating zeal in the vineyard of the Lord 
*11 



130 Memoir of 

and they have had the unspeakable pleasure of 
seeing the fruit of their labors, in the salvation 
of more than three hundred souls, during the 
winter past, in the towns of Charlemont and 
Greenfield ; besides the scores that have been 
converted in other places on the circuit. In 
about two months more, we must take up our 
little all, and go to some other part of the 
work, — where it will be, I know not; perhaps 
I shall be in eternity before that time ap- 
proaches. Be this as it may, I feel as willing 
to go to heaven from Coleraine, as from any 
other part of the world. I only wish to know 
that God is mine and I am His for ever. This 
I do knoWj that if faithful until death, He will 
bring me to the endless joys of heaven." 

The revivals referred to in Charlemont, and 
Greenfield, were among the most powerful dis- 
plays of divine grace, I ever witnessed. These 
towns were places, where Sabbath preaching 
was commenced this conference year, although 
there were two small classes, one in each town, 
before we went on to the circuit. In Charle- 
mont, we worshipped in a small school-house, 
which would hold about one hundred persons; 
and in Greenfield, in a Masonic Hall. In both 
of these towns, we held protracted meetings. 
In Charlemont, where we held the first, we en- 
gaged the Baptist meeting-house, as they had, 
at this time, no preaching in the place. Hav- 
ing Commenced, the iulerest soon rose to such 



feLIZABKTlI ANN MOULTON. 131 

a height, that it was with the greatest difficulty 
that we could accommodate the people, al- 
though the house had galleries on three sides ; 
and so intense was the excitement the second 
week, that one hundred, or more, would press 
their way to the altar for prayers at once4 
when we could make room for them. Two or 
three nights, we set apart three places in the 
house for the anxious ; two in the galleries, 
and one at the altar. The people were praying all 
over the house at once ; I do not wonder, that 
it seemed like a scene of confusion to many, 
who had never before seen the displays of God's 
Spirit on this fashion. So deep was the feel- 
ing upon many minds, that we had prayer- 
meetings for the serious before, and after, short 
sermons, in the morning, afternoon, and even- 
ing. Br. Banister, numbering them on the 
anxious seats, as they professed to be converted, 
counted two hundred in eleven days ; and one 
of these days, he numbered forty conversions. 
While the revival was at the highest pitchy 
two Congregationalist ministers, being greatly 
alarmed about their flocks, whom they saw 
among the crovt^d, talked in our meeting 
against our proceedings; warned their own 
people against being deceived : charging the 
young converts to be very cautious about '* in- 
dulging false hopes," " getting on board of a 
leaky ship," &lc. This soon occasioned a di- 
vision among us : throwing at the same time 
many of the converts into temptation and 



139 MEMOIR Of 

doubts. The Baptists had now sent for a 
minister, and wanted their house, as well as the 
fruit. In this state of things we were obliged 
to retire back to our little school-house again. 
We immediately started a subscription paper 
for money to build a house, and used all proper 
means to save the converts; but so strong did 
the tide set against us, by the persecution of 
our neighbors, that many became discouraged ; 
and consequently much of this harvest was 
lost. We, however, received members enough 
for a respectable church, and they went forward 
and built a house. The news of this revival 
so cheered up the little class of seven, I think, 
in Greenfield, that they wished to have a pro- 
tracted meeting, as soon as pospible. The class 
here had enjoyed some revival since the camp- 
meeting in Bernardston^ and we had already 
held many evening meetings in the Masonic 
Hall. This place was thought not sufficiently 
large to accommodate all that might wish to 
attend ; therefore, the brethren applied for the 
Court House, and obtained consent to hold our 
m.eeting in it. We immediately issued the 
Macedonian cry for help, and to our surprise, 
about twenty preachers responded to our call. 
We commenced, not knowing what to do with 
all the company that came from every quarter 5 
and especially fiom Charlemont, as they came 
pouring in, in crowds : and so full of zeal were 
they, and the preachers who labored in that re- 
vival, that they often made the old Court House 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 133 

ring with the praises of God. This not only 
frightened the inhabitants of Greenfield, who 
before, had scarcely ever heard a loud amen in 
public meeting ; but the shouts of the young 
converts frightened some of our preachers, who 
had come to our help ; so that they felt it their 
duty, in some instances, to reprove us. But 
amidst all the supposed confusion in the meet- 
ing, the alarm was sounded out, and in a few 
days, as the meeting progressed, there were 
seen multitudes of the rich and poor, bowing 
at our altar, surrounding our entire circle, in 
the Court House, crying for mercy. Before 
this meeting closed, which held twenty-one 
days, and evenings, between one and two hun- 
dred had been converted at our altars. 

In these two revivals, Elizabeth took a very 
active part. At Greenfield, where the ladies 
and gentlemen sat apart, Elizabeth took charge 
of the female department, while at, and while 
coming to, the altar ; giving them instruction ; 
at intervals in the prayers learning the state of 
each one's mind, that she and others might the 
better know how to present each individual to 
God, in supplications. So arduous were her labors 
at this meeting, and so ardent her desires for 
the salvation of her friends, that she became 
literally exhausted, and I was obliged to carry 
her home some days before the meeting closed, 
that she might obtain rest from her labors and 
anxieties. After she returned from this meet- 
ing, she did not go away from home much 



134 MEMOIR OF 

more, until after her daughter was born, which 
was June 1 , 1834, while our conference was in 
session in Webster. Some of the brethren and 
sisters will remember how faithfully she perse- 
vered in laboring in Greenfield, for the salva- 
tion of sinners, even after some of her friends 
thought she was not well enough to be abroad ; 
but there was no circumstance in which she 
had ever been placed, in which she thought it 
improper to go to meeting, and work for God, 
when her health would justify it. She had a 
standing rule, to attend upon all the means of 
grace when practicable, regardless of the speech 
of a gainsaying people. 

In this revival, we gathered about one hun- 
dred probationers into the church. The pros- 
pects now being so good, some of the leading 
members thought, they must now have a popu- 
lar preacher stationed with them, at once; for 
some of the first class of men had told them, if 
they would, they should join with them. So 
they wrote to the Presiding Elder, who, obtain- 
ing our consent, removed Br. Paul Townsend 
from his station to Greenfield, and all the cir- 
cuit preachers immediately left the place. We 
were willing to leave ; but felt much grieved, 
that they should turn us away without any 
compensation, more than the small class had 
signed before the revival, after having labored 
and toiled almost a year, suffering all manner 
of persecution, in our persons, and otherwise. 
This course very much grieved myself, and 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 135 

wife ; especially after having suffered so much 
to plant, and establish a church of God there. 
Some of the most abandoned would have mur- 
dered me in the Masonic Hall, one evening, by 
sending a slug of iron, or some other hard 
substance at my head, while preaching before a 
large window, had not the Special Providence 
of God interfered. This weapon of death 
struck against the two sashes which met toge- 
ther in the middle of the window, with such 
tremendous force, that it broke and shivered 
every pane of glass in the window into many 
pieces. Had it struck two or three inches 
lower, or higher, it would have hit my head, 
with force enough to have killed me, as was 
thought by many. The report was so loud, 
that the congregation sat amazed, some of the 
women involuntarily screamed ; but the audi- 
ence was soon composed, and I was permitted 
to finish my sermon unmolested. 

After the close of our protracted meeting, 
some of this gang sheared my poor horse in a 
most ridiculous manner ; so that he did not 
look fit for use, for some time. I had the mor- 
tification, the remainder of the year, of using a 
beast which carried prominent marks of the 
depravity of the natural heart. At a meeting 
at the north part of this town, while preaching, 
a Universal ist preacher feeling irritated at 
what was said, muttered out something which 
disturbed the audience ; I said to him, " what! 
have 1 pulled out a leviathan by the hook," 



136 MEMOIR OF 

which stilled him, until I closed my sermon. 
Then he arose to speak : I requested him to 
desist ; but he raised his voice. When on a 
sudden, my wife commenced a lively hymn, and 
before one verse was sung, many helping her, 
the man was sung down, sitting quietly on his 
seat. I immediately closed my meeting, and 
we hastened to our carriage ; but before we 
could get away, the mob gathered around us, 
and had it not been for the presence of my 
companion, I presume I should not have left in 
safety. I went once more to that place, but 
the signs of the times were such, as to ad- 
monish me that trouble was meditated, and I 
left, after the people had gathered, and went 
there no more. Considering how m.uch we had 
suffered in Greenfield in various ways, to build 
up the church of God, and then to be turned 
off amidst unparalleled prosperity, with but 
little or no remuneration for our labors, we 
told the brethren, that God would not prosper 
them in the course they took. They built a 
convenient church ; had a good preacher, but 
none of those rich ones whom they were fish- 
ing for, by obtaining a popular preacher, 
joined them. In fact, no more joined them 
that year : the next year they lost a number, 
and continued to reduce in strength and num- 
bers, until it was thought by themselves and 
others that they would be obliged to give up 
the means of grace entirely. This should teach 
us to be contented wath such means as God 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 137 

employs, when rapidly advancing. Many soci- 
eties, when looking too high, have been brought 
low before they could see that all their suffi- 
ciency is of God. 

The journal proceeds : 

March 31. — " Have this day finished read- 
ing the life of Dr. Adam Clarke, published in 
three volumes ; and a most interesting work it 
is. I think I have never read the life of any 
man which contains more moral and religious 
instruction. Also, finished reading the book of 
the Ancient Israelites, written originally in 
French, and since translated into English by 
Dr. Clarke, LL. D. This book affords much 
light on the Old Testament." 

Elizabeth cultivated a taste for reading when 
young, and spent most of her leisure hours in 
reading good books : the Bible was her daily 
companion. She was not a stranger to reli- 
gious newspapers, and other periodicals of a 
moral character. It has been said of her, that 
while her eldest sister would spend all her lei- 
sure moments in writing, Elizabeth would em- 
ploy her's in reading. 

April 6. — " This day I find myself rather 

indisposed in body. I know not what is before 

me, but in God will I trust. The past week 

has been a season of great enjoyment. I have 

12 



138 MEMOIR. 

enjoyed a measure of the fullness, but O, how 
unworthy ! I feel the importance of having my 
walk close with God. O Lord, enable me to 
adorn my profession, while I live, that when 
the cold hand of death shall seize this vile 
body, my happy spirit may go and dwell for 
ever in tliy heavenly kingdom !" 

So extensive was the work of God this year, 
that our circuit was divided into two stations, 
and two circuits, the following year, and six 
preachers were sent from conference to supply 
our places. There were also nineteen young 
men on this circuit, who felt it their duty to 
preach the gospel — several of whom are now 
members of our conference. The temperance 
and missionary causes received a new impulse, 
and three new churches were about being 
erected when we left the circuit. How great an 
instrument my companion was in this glorious 
work, eternity alone can tell. But many, I 
have no doubt, will rise up and call her 
blessed. I have dwelt so long already, that I 
cannot stop to describe the revivals in Rowe, 
Gill, Bernardstown, &/C. Br. Stevens, by im- 
prudence with some of the young converts, 
was discontinued. This was a great trial to 
Elizabeth, who deeply sympathized with his 
wife ; they having lived together, in great har- 
mony, during the year. 



CHAPTER VIII. 



Our next appoiutment was at Phillipston 
circuit. I had for my colleagues, Brs. David 
Todd, and Philetus Green, whose body is now 
in the grave. Brs. Todd and Green lived in 
Winchendon, and my family in Phillipston. 
We lived some two miles from the place of 
public worship. Notwithstanding this, Eliza- 
beth was almost as constantly at meeting as 
myself, with her little child. She never con- 
sidered it her duty to neglect the public means 
of grace, because God had blessed her with an 
interesting babe. She commenced carrying 
her child at five weeks old to church, and con- 
tinued, with but little apparent trouble to her- 
self or to the audience. She soon dedicated 
her little one to God, in the ordinance of Bap- 
tism, and was instant in prayer for its salvation, 
ever after it was born. Long before the mother 
died, she received an evidence from God, that 
the child would be converted in God's own best 



140 MEMOIR OF 

time, should she give her a faithful training, 
which was her fixed purpose to do by the grace 
of God helping her. 

June, 1834. — "My little daughter was born 
June 1st. She is a sweet and interesting little 
babe. O, may I have grace and wisdom to 
train her up in the fear of the Lord. I desire 
to live above the world, and have my all placed 
in Him, who has thus kindly and unexpectedly 
preserved me through my season of confinement 
and affliction, and raised me to health again." 

June 26. — "We moved to Phillipston. 
Found the people rather low in religion, with 
some difficulties in the church; still we are 
looking for a cleansing in the church, and a 
revival among sinners. There are three preachers 
sent to two towns, with less than 150 members 
in all, for the watchcare of the three." 

Aug. 27. — " We are pleasantly situated, enjoy 
good health, but have no revival. Prospects are 
good in Athol. Mr. M. has commenced giving 
them Sabbath preaching, which is a new thing, 
in that place. It is expected that many will op- 
pose it." 

Our field of labor being so small this year, 
I thought it my duty to enlarge it, if pos- 
sible; and consequently, obtained the use of 
the Town-House in Athol, and commenced 
preaching, on the Sabbath, half of the time. 
But no sooner had I well commenced, and the 



feLIZABETl! ANN MOULTON. 141 

Work of conviction begun to go forward on 
many minds, than the Baptists sent for an 
Evangelist to come, and hold a pro|racted meet- 
ing with them ; this drew off my congregation, 
to such a degree, that I left the place, after a 
severe struggle to sustain myself" 

Sept. 23. — "It is with peculiar feelings of 
heart that I. attempt to write this morning. I 
have been somewhat indisposed in body for a 
number of weeks, so that I have been unable 
to do my work ; but in the midst of these light 
afflictions, I have consolations which are nei- 
ther few nor small. My hope is founded on a 
sure rock, — even Christ the chief corner-stone. 
My evidence is bright for Heaven and eternal 
glory. I now submit all to God, and if my life 
is spared, religion shall be my theme. If death 
is soon to be the portion of my cup, I fear it 
not. No ! / believe it will be the gate to joys 
more refined, and happiness, as lasting as eter- 
nity itself O glorious thought! It revives 
my spirits, and gives me fresh courage to per- 
severe in my Christian course, a few more fleet- 
ing days, or years. We are now enjoying a 
good revival in Phillipston. Many, who, a ie.\v 
days ago, were in the broad way to death, are 
now rejoicing in God. The work commenced 
at the time we commemorated the death and 
sufferings of Christ ; at which time I solemnly 
offered up my little one to God, in the ordi- 
nance of holy baptism. The power of God 
*12 



142 MEMOIR OF 

evidently attended these sacraments. Mr, M. 
commenced a series of meetings which con- 
tinued fifteen evenings and some days. About 
25 were converted, most of whom joined the 

class. 

Although Elizabeth was unwell during the 
above meeting, yet so intensely did she feel for 
the result of the revival, that she found her way 
to many of the services, with her little one ; 
and when at meeting in revivals, she always 
found something to do. Having become ac- 
customed to her help, I hardly felt right with- 
out her presence, and probably encouraged her 
to go to meeting, when she was not able ; which 
course I have since greatly regretted. In after 
years, when I could be assisted by her, I did 
not call in much help from abroad. We have 
frequently held meetings successively, month 
after month, with but an occasional sermon 
from abroad. 

The revival here was greatly checked, if not 
entirely stopped, by the wicked Universalists, 
who came with their minister, and presented 
themselves at the altar for prayers, in derision. 
These wicked acts, with some imprudence on 
our part, turned the attention of the people 
from the work of revival to vain janglings, 
which soon put a period to a most interesting 
work of grace in P. During this revival 
thirty were converted, and twenty united 
with the church on probation. The brethren 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 143 

were much quickened, and are hoping for bet- 
ter times. 

" Dec. 24, 1834. — Since I last wrote, I have 
visited my friends in Lunenburg. Found my 
mother very different from what I had ever seen 
her before. She has been awakened to a sense 
of her danger for some time, as she informed 
me, and has now come to a decision of mind 
to serve God, and is made a happy subject of 
converting grace. This to me is joyful indeed. 
O, how many times have I prayed for her in 
years that have rolled away, and God has, at 
last, answered my prayers ! To Him be all the 
glory for ever. My mind has been in a peaceful 
frame for some weeks past, with a very few ex- 
ceptions. O what sweet enjoyments the Chris- 
tian finds in serving God faithfully." 

Should all pious children pray as much for 
their unconverted mothers, as Elizabeth did for 
her mother, I think the promise " ask and ye 
shall receive," would be verified. I will pre- 
sume her mother's case was carried to a throne 
of grace, several times a day, for more than 
ten years; and when converted, her daughter's 
cup was full of glory. The circumstances of 
her mother's conversion were these. Being in- 
vited to a protracted meeting in Lunenburg, 
which was then in session, Elizabeth received 
a promise for the first time, from her mother, 
that she would go half a day with her to meet- 



144 ME.\/OlR o:^ 

ing. After sermon it was observed that coif-» 
viction had fallen upon the people ; but none 
were disposed to go forward for prayers, until 
some of us went in among the congregation, in- 
viting the serious. At this time, Elizabeth 
whispered to Br. Joel Knight, requesting him 
to give her mother an invitation to go forward 
to the altar, for prayers. He went, and she 
came out, with several others, and during that 
prayer-meeting, the Lord converted her soul, to 
th° exceeding great joy of Elizabeth and others. 
She not being willing to unite with the Calvin- 
istic church, where her husband belonged, he 
came off, and with his wife, united with the 
Methodist E. Church, and both are walking, as 
I humbly trust, in all the commandments and 
ordinances of the Lord blameless. The bur- 
den of Elizabeth's prayers now ceased for her 
mother, and she commenced with new interest 
praying for her three sisters who were as yet 
unconverted. 

The following letter was written to her sister 
Lucy, who had been recently married, rather 
reproving her for not manifesting more interest 
in her welfare. Elizabeth always keenly felt 
any supposed neglect on the part of her friends ; 
her object was not to retaliate, but to give 
them good advice, and let it pass 

" PiiiLLiPSTON, Dec. 21, 1834. 

" Dear Sister : — As it is more than a year 
since I last saw you, and nearly a year since I 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 145 

wrote you, without having received an answer ; 
and as I love you, and feel a deep interest in 
your welfare, I think the little notice I hftve re- 
ceived from you since your marriage, is not a 
sufficient apology for me to withhold my pen 
from writing, although it would perhaps be just. 
I think you may have had much to do, and 
much to occupy your mind, yet, I think this is 
not a sufficient excuse for your negligence. 
Various have been the scenes through which I 
have passed, since I last saw you. Prosperity 
and adversity, joy and sorrow, have been min- 
gled in my cup. My health has been feeble 
most of the time, for six months past. I have 
sometimes felt as though disease was fast prey- 
ing upon me, and that my days on earth would 
be few. I have been unable for several weeks 
together to do my work. My health now, how- 
ever, is improving. Mr. M. enjoys the best of 
health. Our little girl is well and sprightly, 
just beginning to creep. We are very pleas- 
antly situated this year. We have had but few 
additions to our church compared with last 
year, but we are not discouraged. About fifty 
have united here, and at Winchendon, since we 
came to the circuit. Last Sabbath several 
came forward for prayers. An old gentleman 
since came and informed us that he was a great 
sinner. 

" I spent about two weeks at my parents in the 
fall, and while there, my dear mother presented 
herself at the altar for prayers, and soon found 



146 MEMOIR Of 

her Savior. O, what a glorious sight to me * 
and when she found deliverance, joy unuttera- 
ble filled my heart O, to have our dear mother 
singing praises to God, was indeed a joyful 
sound to me ! And my joys were not a little 
increased, to see her manifest such an anxiety 
for her neighbors. She thought they would be 
converted if they would only attend the meet- 
ings. So she sent our father out among them ; 
but to no purpose ; for they would not attend. 
Having made my visit, I took the stage and 
went to VVinchendon, where I met my husband 
enjoying a glorious revival, such as has not 
be^en enjoyed there for five years past. AH 
the musicians were converted, or reclaimed. 
They then found, that they could praise God 
better with their voices, than with their instru- 
ments. I must now hasten to a close ; but per- 
mit me first to exhort you to seek an interest in 
Christ. O, my dear friend, the wheels of time 
are rapidly rolling round, to hurry us into eter- 
nity ; and now while reformation is spreading- 
through our happy land, and the heralds of sal- 
vation are proclaiming liberty to the captives, it 
is my earnest prayer that you, my dear brother, 
and sister, may with the many thousands who 
are now flocking to Christ, secure an inheri- 
tance, which is incorruptible, undefiled, and 
that fadeth not awny. I know not but you have 
already set about this great work ; if not, I be- 
seech you, to delay no longer. I sometimes 
jTear that I shall never meet you again on eartK 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 147 

but do meet me in heaven. I feel that I am 
bound thither, and shall, if faithful, join the 
church of the first-born, together with my com- 
panion, and friends, who have gone before to 
celebrate the praises of God and the Lamb for 
ever. O, the blissful thought ! " 

''E. MoULTON." 

The following letter was written to my sister 
in Monson, who was a dear friend to my wife. 
It is only the filling up of a blank left by my- 
self; when writing to my friends, Elizabeth al- 
ways wished for a small place to throw in a 
[ew sentences. 

" Phillipston, Jan. 30, 1S34. 
^'Dear Sister: — Having a few leisure moments, 
and a blank left on Mr. M's sheet, I would in- 
form you that Jesus is still precious to my soul. 
I feel that great is my responsibility, yet, I am 
doing but little for God. My motto, however, 
is onward and upward ; and by the grace of 
God, I intend to gain heaven. I enjoy my mind 
well. We have good seasons on the circuit. 
The class, to which I belong, is on good 
ground, and well engaged. I made a visit to 
my father's in November, at which time, my 
dear mother experienced religion. Truly my 
heart rejoices at this miracle of grace. It has 
long been ray prayer that God would convert 
my mother, and now I know that He has an- 
swered prayer. Blessed be His holy name ! . 



148 MEMOIR OF 

how infinitely good He is ! I feel, my dear sis- 
ter, that we shall add a few stars to our crowns 
on this circuit, if faithful. O, pray for us. 
I must now close, hoping these few lines will 
find you in good health of body and soul. 
Amen. E. A. Moulton." 

Feb. 2, 1835.— " Mr. M. has attended re- 
cently two protracted meetings — one at Fitz- 
william, the other at Greenfield ; but little was 
accomplished at either of them. Circumstances 
were such that I did not go. Br. James O. 
Dean, of Gill, has come to study with Mr. M., 
and preach Sundays until Conference." (This 
dear brother, having served effectually in the 
ministry, has lately ascended to his "Father and 
our Father, his God and our God.") 

Feb, 29. — " Mr. M. has held an evening pro- 
tracted meeting in Royalston of late. This is 
a new place; several have been converted, and 
a class of 15 formed. About 30 were con- 
verted." 

Having supposed that the several towns 
about Phillipston, where Unitarianism had 
thrown a dark shade over the community, 
were about ready to receive the word of God, 
I wrote for Br. Dean, who was about entering 
the ministry, to come and spend the remainder 
of the Conference year with me, promising to 
board him, and let him study week-days, if he 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 149 

would give the people his services Sabbaths ; 
expecting to obtain enough for his labors to 
compensate ine for his board ; but in this I was 
mistaken. The people, having learned my in- 
tention, shut me out of four towns; in two or 
three of which, revivals had begun, when the 
doors were closed against me and my col- 
leagues. I am happy to learn that Methodism 
has been introduced into all these towns since, 
namely, Athol, Petersham, Royalston and Tem- 
pleton. Had not this persecution been raised 
against me, at a time when it was not con- 
sistent to preach in the open air, I think by the 
grace of God, I should have prevailed. 

My companion's health not being as good 
this winter, and her domestic cares increasing, 
she did not go abroad with me as much as 
formerly. She always found time, however, 
in her multiplied cares, to ride with me occa- 
sionally around the circuit. About the first of 
April, she took her infant and started with me 
for Winchendon. Having come into the limits 
of the town, we thought we would just call 
upon our brethren as we passed. It being 
rather late when we reached Br. Poland's 
house, and we, desiring to go farther, I turned 
up into the door-yard, jumped out, leaving my 
wife and child in the carriage; and run into 
the house without stopping to hitch my horse, 
as he had always been good to stand. No 
sooner had I reached the door of the house, 
than the horse took fright, and started with full 
speed, and when he turned from the yard to 
13 



150 MEMOIR. 

follow the road, my wife and child were thrown 
out of the carriage with great force, the distance 
of a rod back of the place, where the carriage 
turned over. In this fall, Br. Poland, who saw 
her when she was thrown out, said that she 
turned a complete summerset, before she struck 
the ground. The child lay breathless about 
twelve feet from its mother. All who saw this 
perilous adventure, acknowledged the special 
interference of the Providence of God, in pre- 
serving the life of my wife and child. In this 
fall she broke her arm, otherwise she did not 
materially injure herself Supposing the child 
was dead, she lost all anxiety for herself, mourn- 
ing for the child. But the little child was 
brought to life, after it had ceased to breathe 
for some time, having no limb injured ; and the 
mother, after suffering much a few weeks, re- 
ceiving every mark of attention from Br. Po- 
land and family, went with her little daughter 
to her father's house, and tarried till after Con- 
ference. 

My companion, and myself always consid- 
ered this affliction in its results, the greatest 
blessing we ever received, sent in disguise. 
For it truly humbled us in the dust. It also 
brought us to view God's protecting hand in 
dangers as we never had viewed it before. We 
never could look back upon this narrow escape, 
but with the deepest sensations of gratitude to 
God, for preserving mercy in time of trouble. 
This was a year of deep affliction and trial to 
my wife, but out of them all God deliverd her. 



CHAPTER IX. 



We received our next appointment in Wales, 
where I had formerly labored two years. Some 
of my relations living there, and the health of 
my wife not being very good, I chose to go 
there, notwithstanding the society was very low 
and feeble. On our v/ay from Lunenburg to 
Wales, we called upon her sister, Lucy War- 
ren, and spent the night. Elizabeth feeling 
much for her sister, and having prayed for her, 
for more than ten years, exhorted her and her 
husband to seek the Lord, night and morning; 
and both of us prayed earnestly that God 
would have mercy on them. Elizabeth soon 
received a letter from her mother, assuring her 
that Lucy and her husband had experienced re- 
ligion. The conversion of these two friends, 
through the faithful entreaties and prayers of 
their sister, was the beginninop of a revival in 

J DO 

the town of Holden, where they then lived. 
Elizabeth having received the happy news of 



152 MEMOIR OF 

their conversion to God, wrote them the fol- 
lowing letter : 

'* Wales, Aug. 30, 1835. 
^^ Dear Br. and Sister, — I would inform 
you that we are very pleasantly situated this 
year ; surrounded with relatives and friends, 
and what is better than all, a superintending 
Providence is over us for good. Although my 
bodily health is somewhat feeble, I feel that 
God is my refuge, and in Him I find all that 
consolation which I need ; yea, ' He is a 
stroncr tower into which the righteous run and 
are safe.' I recently received a letter from 
mother, informing me that you, and your hus- 
band, have both obtained the pearl of great 
price, since we visited you. I can assure you, 
that on hearing such news, my heart was not a 
little elated with joy and gladness. It always 
rejoices my soul to hear of the conversion of sin- 
ners ; but more especially to hear of the conver- 
sion of my nearest relatives, for whom I have so 
long prayed and agonized. Often, have I poured 
out my soul to God in prayer, that you might 
secure an interest in Christ, before it should be 
too late. Mother writes, ' It is rejoicing news,' 
and surely it is ; for the angels in heaven re- 
joice, and well may we, when our dear friends 
are brought to God. And dear brother and 
sister, I beseech you, ' hold fast the beginning 
of your confidence steadfast unto the end,' and 
you shall reap a never-fading crown of glory, 
and mingle with the heavenly host above, in 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 1^3 

ascribing praise to God and the Lamb for 
ever and ever. I hope too, to hear that Louisa 
has also found the Savior. We returned last 
evening from a protracted meeting, held in 
New Salem, in a grove. My health being feeble^ 
I only attended two days. God was there, of a 
truth, to save souls. Many presented them- 
selves at the altar for prayers, and more than 
twenty witnessed that * Christ hath power on 
earth to forgive sins.' It was truly a memor- 
able season. I visited Greenwich, and saw 
many of my old friends. I have no more news 
in particular to give you. The churches are 
rather low, but we are looking for better days. 
This week Mr. Moulton commences a pro- 
tracted meeting in Monson ; and next week, we 
are going to attend camp-meeting in Wilbra- 
ham. O, be faithful to the grace given you, 
and God will make you the happy instrument 
of saving many souls from ruin. God has 
taught you that you have a work to do for 
him ; therefore, let your light so shine before 
men, that you may constrain others to come to 
Christ. May heaven vouchsafe to you his rich- 
est blessings. Yours with great respect, 

" E. A. MoULTON." 

July 1, 1835. —" We moved to Wales. Mr. 
Moulton expects to preach half of the time in 
Wales, and the other half in Monson. The 
societies are small in both towns. We are all 
enjoying comfortable health, and we think the 
prospects are good for reformation." 
*13 



154 MEMOIR OF 

The field in this region being large, by the 
consent of my wife, I engaged Br. G. W. 
Green, to spend the year in my family, preach- 
ing Sabbaths for his board, and employing the 
rest of his time in my study. But I soon 
learned, that my call for help was premature. 
The enemy had not only intrenched himself 
against us, but other denominations were all 
arrayed against us ; so that we could break up 
but little new ground, on which we could es- 
tablish any permanent churches. The influ- 
ence of Elizabeth was much crippled this 
year, by my taking Br. Green into my family, 
which confined her mostly at home ; and also 
our pecuniary prospects looking so embarrass- 
ing, Elizabeth thought that she must take her 
needle and help support the family. 

The journal continues : 

" Wales, Jan. 10, 1836. 

" The Lord hath kindly preserved my life an- 
other short year. Every thing calls loudly for me 
to awake, and gird on the whole armor of right- 
eousness. I find myself too stupid and inactive 
in the cause which most deeply concerns my 
present and future welfare : still, my enjoyment 
for a month past has been greater than for 
years before. Blessed be the name of God for 
it ! We find in this place many things which 
serve as discouragements to a preacher of the 
gospel ; yet, we are surrounded with friends, 
and relatives, which greatly adds to our tem- 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 155 

poral comforts ; and thereby tends to promote 
our spiritual enjoyments. But O the spiritual 
dearth among the people ! The world — its 
fondness for pleasure, passion, and vain amuse- 
ments — appears to drown the influence of the 
gospel. We have, however, had a few addi- 
tions to the little church in this place, and we 
believe that the church stands on much better 
ground, than when we came. O Lord, may I 
be rendered a blessing to this little branch of 
Zion, for Jesus' sake. Early last spring I had 
the misfortune to break my arm, which unfitted 
me for the active duties of life, for many 
weeks ; but through the blessing of God, and a 
faithful physician, my arm is now nearly re- 
stored to its former strength and soundness." 

Jan. 29. — " Mr. Moulton is now preaching 
in Stafford, Wales, Union, Monson, Brimfield 
and Sturbridge, being assisted Sabbaths, by Br. 
Green, who is studying with him, preparatory 
to joining conference next year. May God 
make him a son of thunder to the wicked, and 
a son of consolation to the penitent." 

April 26. — " My little daughter was taken 
sick suddenly with the canker-rash — then with 
the chicken pox ; and before she got well of 
that, she had the mumps ; but she soon re- 
covered from them all. That God who heard 
the prayer of Elijah, heard our prayers for her. 
All praise be given to his name !" 



156 MEMOIR OF 

April 30. — " Two or three weeks since, 
Mr. Moulton's only brother experienced reli- 
gion. He is the last of six children who, in 
early life, were thrown out into the world, 
fatherless and motherless. How true the say- 
ing of the Psalmist, ' when father and mother 
forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.' 

" We were obliged to move the first of 
April, which makes twice, in about ten 
months." 

May 28. — " Another conference year is 
about to close. About fifty souls have been 
gathered as the fruit of our labors; the preceding 
year about eighty ; and the year before about 
five hundred. Time, O how swift it flies away ! 
Who that duly reflects on the worth of Time 
and the importance of improving it, can per- 
mit one moment of it to pass unimproved ! 
Who that justly realizes that he has an immor- 
tal soul that must exist hereafter, either in hap- 
piness or misery, can while away time, and suf- 
fer his moments, hours, days, months and 
years, to roll into eternity without improvement, 
unless his heart is like the adamantine rock or 
the nether mill-stone ? Where is that person 
who desires God, who has given us time to 
prepare for eternity, and all that awaits us be- 
yond this vale of tears ? Shall we, who are 
creatures of a few years, blessed with rational 
powers and faculties of mind, be so stupid as to 
squander away our time in idleness, when ac- 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 157 

countable to God, for all our words and ac- 
tions ? What folly ! How great our condem- 
nation in the coming judgment ! O may I re- 
flect duly on the vast importance of improving 
every moment of time to the good of my own 
soul, and for the benefit of all around." 

May 29. — '' O, how little I honor my 
blessed Savior ! O, that I may know that I am 
of some little use in the world ! O, when shall 
I serve Thee as I ouaht in all things ! Gracious 
Savior, visit me, just now, with thy presence 
and power, that I never may depart from thee 
more !" 

May 30. — " With this year, closes three 
years that Mr. M. has preached on Wales cir- 
cuit. He was instrumental of introducing Me- 
thodism into several other towns besides Wales, 
while located here. Soon we must leave here, 
and where we shall go, the Lord only knows. 
We leave it all to Him. Lord direct us where 
we may be instrumental in saving scores and 
hundreds of souls." 

We had some revival this year at Monson, 
and formed one new class in the north-west 
part of it, of about thirty members. We also 
gathered a few Congregationalists into our 
church in Wales, who for some time had been 
left without a shepherd. We also paid off a 
little debt on the church here, by lifting very 



158 MEMOIR OF 

hard ourselves. We set up Sabbath preaching 
in the towns of Sturbridge, and Brimfield. In 
the last named town there had risen up quite a 
society of New Haven Perfectionists, which 
God enabled myself and wife, to scatter to the 
four winds, in the name of Jesus ; some of 
whom afterwards joined the Methodists. This 
year the canker-rash prevailed in Brimfield, to 
an alarming degree. Elizabeth taking her little 
girl with her, while laboring with me there, 
day after day, and night after night, she took 
this disease, and brought it to Wales. We were 
both much alarmed about it, and I hurried for 
a physician who was the best acquainted with 
treating the disease. Having come, he pro- 
nounced it the canker-rash ; left directions 
how to treat it, and promised to come again, 
the next day. The child growing worse, at 
evening, instead of giving it the medicines, we 
both repaired to the Great Physician, and ago- 
nized in prayer, until the Lord appeared, and 
rebuked the disease. We gave her no more 
medicines. The physician came again the next 
day, and, to his great surprise, the daughter 
was healed. This special, and speedy cure, 
Elizabeth always attributed to the power of di- 
vine grace, in answer to agonizing and prevail- 
ing prayer. This is only a specimen of her 
strong faith in prayer for the sick. Whenever 
she began to cry out, " Lord, we believe thou 
wilt bless," you might expect the fountain of 
the disease would give way, whether physical 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 159 

or spiritual. Scores of penitents have felt the 
healing virtue applied to their souls, while she 
was agonizing in fervent prayer for them. 

Jan. 15, 1837. — " At the next conference, 
Mr. M. received his appointment on Granville 
circuit. We arrived at this place under some 
embarrassing circumstances, as there was no 
house provided for us to live in. Mr. M. left 
me at Br. Bates', and rode until he found a 
comfortable home, in the house with Br. Barns. 
This is a very large circuit, and a very moun- 
tainous region of country ; roads are very bad ; 
the people are agitated with the temperance 
question, and opposition rises high against it, 
by some of the brethren. There was in the 
church, one Methodist member, but a few rods 
from our location, whose distillery was not 
more than a stone's throw from our dwelling, in 
which was distilled cider-brandy for his breth- 
ren and neighbors. There were two Methodist 
merchants on the circuit who sold it ; one Me- 
thodist sister who kept a rum-tavern, and one 
class-leader,one steward, and one local preacher, 
who made use of this poison as a drink ; con- 
sequently, the circuit was in a very low state, 
when Mr. M. and Br. Lewis came here. But 
they went to work, in the name of the Lord, 
visiting from house to house, reproving sin and 
the rum-drinker, wherever they went, until the 
churches were set right — until the distillery 
had been removed ; the rum-sellers had ceased 



160 MEMOIR or 

to retail intoxicating drinks, and the classes 
had promised reformation. Their efforts were 
soon succeeded by a glorious outpouring of the 
Holy Spirit, in Blandford ; and souls have been 
converted on other parts of the circuit — pro- 
bably one hundred in all." 

Here my dear companion went with me from 
place to place, over mountains, and through 
valleys, up to the present date, whenever it was 
practicable, to assist me in the work of the 
Lord; some times taking her little daughter 
with her, and sometimes leaving her for weeks 
among the brethren. So intensely did her soul 
burn for the salvation of her fellow men. 

During the revival in Blandford, we held meet- 
ings successively forty nights, some of the time, 
day and night. Here E. put forth all her 
strength for weeks, in exhorting, praying, and 
in visiting with me the people. At this time 
the excitement was so intense on the subject of 
temperance, and many had threatened to with- 
hold from us our support, but Elizabeth fearing 
not the consequences, seconded all my efforts 
in carrying out the great principles of temper- 
ance, and abolition, in connection with the gos- 
pel of Jesus Christ. Another thing, which al- 
most enraged some of the brethren against me 
on this subject, was, my exertions to enlighten 
the people on the great evils of slavery. To 
assist me in this great work, the Female Anti- 
Slavery Society sent me, weekly, ten copies of 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 161 

the Liberator, which my wife, and myself, cir- 
culated gratuitously all over the circuit ; be- 
sides at this time, I became responsible for ten 
copies of Zion's Watchman. For these acts of 
interference, which were supposed by the good 
people here, would result in filling up their 
community with a black population, I was 
thought almost unpardonable, by many of our 
friends ; hence our sufferings were greatly aug- 
mented by these benevolent deeds. But for the 
performance of these things, the subject of our 
notice suffered cheerfully, believing it was for 
righteousness' sake. In December, I left the 
circuit to urge the claims of the Missionary 
Education Society. Elizabeth feeling a deep 
interest in this cause, and wishing to visit some 
of her old friends, journeyed with me, taking 
her little daughter. This proved the most peril- 
ous enterprize she ever undertook. But with a 
martyr's courage, she persevered amid dangers, 
and the cold winds, and storms, and floods, 
which must have been very discouraging to any 
but the bold adventurer, who is fearless of dan- 
ger, knowing that God directs the storms and 
winds, and has promised that the floods shall 
not overwhelm those that trust in Him. Per- 
haps, but few ever came nearer perishing, with- 
out receiving but little injury, than we all did 
in crossing a stream, after a violent storm, 
which raised the water above its banks; the ex- 
treme cold having frozen the water almost hard 
enough to bear. In this perilous situation, we 
14 



162 MEMOIR OF 

crossed a stream about 25 rods wide. Having 
entered it, we could not return ; hence, we 
persevered, and nothing but a superintending 
Providence saved us from a sudden death ; but 
God preserved us. All glory be to his name. 
In this enterprize we raised, and obtained 
pledges for over two hundred dollars. Never 
should I dare to undertake another such enter- 
prize with my family on the mountains in the 
winter. In all these difficulties, Elizabeth ex- 
hibited the character of a christian hero, with- 
out any murmuring or complaint, where dan- 
gers, storms, drifts and bad roads intercepted 
our path. We not only had good success in 
begging, but the Lord gave us souls, for our 
hire. In two places, revivals commenced, and 
we made arrangements to spend a few nights in 
them. After we returned, Elizabeth was so 
much exhausted, and the snow had fallen so 
deep, and drifted so high, that she travelled 
with me but little more on this circuit. 

The journal proceeds : 

Jan. 25. — " Another year of my short life 
has rolled away. Blessed be God ! during the 
past year, my soul has participated largely in 
the rich treasures of the gospel ; especially dur- 
ing some portions of it. Although I have to re- 
gret the too little progress I have made in my 
christian journey ; yet, for a few days past, I 
have felt a solemn peace of mind. I realize 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 163 

that my situation is a very responsible one, in 
as much as I am the wife of a Methodist 
preacher, and the mother of one lovely daugh- 
ter. Gracious God, grant me Thy special grace, 
that I may endure hardness as a good soldier, 
in all the trying scenes through which I am 
called to pass. Without Thee I am helpless ; 
with Thee, I can do all Thy will. O give 
grace and glory ! Amen." 

May, 1837. — "The closing up of our labors 
on this circuit is glorious. The additions are 
not great, but the standard of piety is raised 
very much. About one hundred joined our 
church on the circuit, and about fifty were con- 
verted through the instrumentality of Mr, M., 
within the bounds of the Troy conference ; be- 
tween thirty and forty of whom were gathered 
together, and formed into a church. The Sab- 
bath school and temperance causes have been 
greatly blessed. The missionary enterprize 
has taken a new impetus all over the circuit, 
and the anti-slavery movements have resulted 
in making many thorough abolitionists. Mr. 
M. gave ten dollars for Zion's Watchman, and 
had ten Liberators sent him weekly by the Fe- 
male Anti-Slavery Society, which he spread 
broad cast throughout the circuit." 

The following letter was written to her 
adopted sister, who lived at this time with her 
sister Lucy, in Holden. Elizabeth feeling 



164 MEMOIR OF 

much interested for her soul's salvation, ad- 
dressed her in the following language : 

" East Granville, Oct. 30, 1836. 

'' Dear Sister Louisa: — Having a few lei- 
sure moments, I embrace them in writing to 
one, who is near and dear to me, by the ties of 
nature and affection. I have ever felt deep so- 
licitude for your present and future welfare; 
and for this reason, I am constrained to take 
up my pen and address you on the all-important 
subject of religion. Perhaps, as I know not 
the state of your present feelings, my senti- 
ments may appear to you as an idle tale, but be 
assured you have my prayers, with the letter, 
and my best wishes for your spiritual welfare. 
Yes, my dear Louisa, ever since you came to 
years of understanding, I have felt an ardent 
desire, that you might become a christian. I 
know not but you have already given your 
heart to the Savior : but if not, I beseech you, 
to delay seeking the salvation of your soul no 
longer. Time is on the wing, and sickness and 
death are the common lot of us all ; and oh ! 
to die without hope, without God, without an 
interest in the Savior — the very thought of 
which, is enough to shock human nature. Hea- 
ven lost, is lost for ever ! Heaven gained, is hap- 
piness eternal ! O how would my heart rejoice 
to hear of your espousals to Christ — to hear 
that you have made choice of religion. 

" I would just inform you, that we are en- 



feLlZABEfH ANN MOULTON. IGS 

joying a gracious revival on this circuit. About 
one hundred souls have recently been brought 
from darkness into God's marvellous light. 

*' Others are inquiring the vi^ay to Zion. We 
are much encouraged. The Lord is our helper, 
and will be out exceeding great reward. Mr. 
M. has been at home only one week out of the 
seven last past — ' in labors abundant.' I have 
a great desire to hear from you all, and of your 
prosperity. We do not mean to complain of 
our circuit this year ; although far from home, 
and connections, we find christian friends. 
Elizabeth has learned several Verses by heart. 
I have just written to our parents. We live in 
a very mountainous country, where are plenty of 
farmers, who bring in all the good things we 
need. Our healths are all good. 

" E. A. MOULTON." 

The following letter was written to her sister, 
Lucy Warren, who lived now in Holden, and 
had joined the Baptist church, Elizabeth 
always felt that her sister was proselyted away 
from her home, where she had received her 
early impressions ; and fearing she would back- 
slide from duty, exhorted her to holiness, not- 
withstanding this sentiment is opposed to the 
articles to which she had subscribed : 

'' East Granville, Jan. 8, 1837. 

" Dear Sistei^ Lucy, — Not being permitted 
to visit you while on our tedious and perilous 
*14 



166 MEMOIR OF 

journey, I will now address a few lines to you. 
We anticipated visiting you, but the weather 
was rough and the time short, so we hurried 
home as soon as possible. We spent about 
twenty-four hours at father's, and about as much 
time at our sister Lydia's. I was sorry to hear 
of the feeble state of your health ; but remem- 
ber the promise, ' all things shall work together 
for good to them that love God ;' and doubtless 
you can claim this promise. 

" Afflictions prove blessings in disguise, when 
sent to God's people ; especially if a proper use 
is made of them. I trust, dear sister, that you 
are still pursuing the narrow way to heaven ; 
that your motto is ' onward and upward ' still. 
O, be not discouraged ; the crown is at the end 
of the race! Although the way is beset with 
trials, afflictions, and crosses ; yet, we may, by 
the constant observance of all the commands of 
God, be kept from sliding back into sin, and 
gain, at last, the haven of eternal rest. 

" O what a glorious hope is ours, 
While here on earth we stay ! 
We more than taste the heavenly powers, 
And antedate that day." 

O, how little does the world and all its sublu- 
nary things appear, when we view our joys im- 
mortal ! when we stand aloof from pride, self- 
will, unbelief, and hatred ; yea, when we pos- 
sess victory, perfect victory, in our souls, over 
the world, the flesh and the devil ! My dear 



ELIZAfiETH A>'.N MOULTO.^. 167 

sister, I would insist that you seek for that holi- 
tiess, without which no man can see the Lord 
Doubtless, your christian experience has been 
similar to that of others ; and if so, you have 
felt after conversion, the risings of corrupt 
nature — sinful tempers and appetites, such as 
pride, self-will, anger, peevishness, &c. Now, 
if we give way to these, barrenness and con- 
demnation will ensue. 

*' You may say that you have no conviction 
for holiness. But is not a feeling sense that sin 
remains in the heart, conviction for it ; such sins 
as malice, evil surraisings, jealousies, fcc. Now, 
my dear sister, the attainment of this blessing 
is every way calculated to secure a more rapid 
advancement of the christian, in his warfare 
towards heaven. But perhaps excuses may rise 
in your mind, like the following : I must wai: 
for more feeling, and until better prepared. 
Again, I am so sinful, and unworthy, I cannot 
come ; and should I attain to this, I cannot 
live it ; or if I could, I must appear so singular 
to the world, and the common class of profes- 
sors, that I cannot endure it. But I would 
say, obey God I and his command is — ' be ye 
holy ;' ' purify your hearts, ye double minded ;' 
' it is the will of God, even your sanctification ;' 
* pray without ceasing — in every thing give 
thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ 
Jesus concerning you ;' * thou shalt love the 
Lord thy God with all thy heart, and soul, and 
strength, and thy neighbor as thyself Much 



168 MEMOIR OP 

is implied in these texts, and all things are pos* 
sible to him that believeth. You may say, I 
know not how to seek it ; but God says, * give 
me thy heart.' Renounce every idol, claim the 
great and precious promises, firmly relying on 
the atonement of Christ, and his blood will 
wash thy soul whiter than snow, and thou shalt 
be perfected in his love. Then will you cry, 
Abba, Father. I view this blessing to be indis*- 
pensably necessary to the saving of the soul in 
the kingdom of God. Your views on this sub- 
ject may be different from mine ; yet you must 
believe God's word. O ray sister, so ruri that 
you may obtain a crown of glory at last. 

" Please show this broken letter to no one. 
I was much disappointed in not seeing Celia at 
father's. Give my love to her, and inform her 
that I feel a deep interest in the welfare of her 
soul. I hope she will seek the Lord before it 
is too late. My love also to Louisa. Inform 
her that I have not received an answer to my 
last letter. We have had precious times on the 
circuit this year. Sister Lydia and her husband 
appear very happy in their new situation in Ash*, 
biirnham. I have some idea of living in Bel- 
chertown next year. If so, please visit us. Tell 
Br. Warren not to neglect his duty. Remem- 
ber us in your prayers, and believe us, yours 
affectionately, in the bonds of a peaceful gos- 
pel. Elizabeth A. Moulton." 

The following letter was written to her pa- 
rents on the same sheet on which I wrote to 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 169 

them, describing some incidents connected with 
our return from our missionary tour, and the 
state of the church. 

*' Granville, Jan. 24. 
" Dear Parents, — As my husband has left a 
blank space, I will fill it up. This is a very 
pleasant morning overhead, but the snow-drifts 
look rather dubious, being nearly as high as 
the top of our front door. We rejoice at what 
the Lord is doing on our circuit at the present 
time. I have not been permitted to attend the 
meetings since I returned home, on account of 
the roughness of the weather, and the violent 
colds in our family. I regretted very much, 
that we could stay no longer with you. The 
next day, we arrived at Phillipston ; put up with 
Br. Doane's family, and spent the Sabbath. Mr. 
M. went to Winchendon in the evening, and in 
consequence of the violence of the storm, could 
not return until the next day. Tuesday we 
found our way to Greenfield. This was a dan- 
gerous route, occasioned by the late storm, and 
the sudden freezing of the weather ; but we 
were mercifully preserved from harm. The 
next day we arrived on the borders of our cir- 
cuit, and attended a wedding. All things went 
off pleasantly, but we did not arrive at home 
until the next Monday. I might relate many 
little incidents, but have no time. Write as soon 
as you receive this. Tell us how your souls 
prosper, and the state of religion generally. 
I think it of the greatest importance that we 



470 MEMOIR OF 

make sure work for eternity— that we guard 
against a worldly spirit, and seek for that in- 
ward purity, without which, we cannot see 
God. I must now close by subscribing myself 
your unworthy child, Elizabeth Ann." 

to lucy warren. 

" Granville, April 10. 
'' Dear Sister:— I received your letter of 
March 21, with much joy and gladness, statmg 
that your health is improving. I much feared 
the result of your illness, but the Lord has no 
doubt restored you, for further usefulness in the 
church. May you cheerfully fulfil your high 
and holy calling, adorning the doctrine of God 
your Savior in all things. Surely, I cannot ex- 
press my gratitude to God, for the great things 
he has done for you and yours ; and for all ot 
us as a family. I rejoice, likewise, that the 
Lord is again visiting your town with the out- 
pouring of the Holy Spirit. Its continuance 
depends much upon the faithfulness of God s 
children. Then be instant, in season and out 
of season ; in reproving, exhorting, and rebuk- 
ing sin and sinners. You may be instrumental, 
should you not get weary in well-doing, in 
bringing many souls to the Savior. You say 
that you have thought much of the subject ot 
holiness, of which I wrote in the last letter, and 
ask, what more can we do than give our hearts 
unreservedly to Him, pray without ceasing, &c. 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 171 

I answer, if we do thus give our hearts to Him, 
I believe we shall have an evidence that we are 
cleansed from unrighteousness ; an inward tes- 
timony that we please God, even a fullness of 
joy, a death to sin and a life to righteousness ; we 
then can say we love God with all our hearts, and 
our neighbor as ourselves. I believe there are 
many who do receive this inestimable blessing, 
but for want of light on this subject, yielding 
to temptation, are brought into doubt, and thus 
lose the blessed enjoyment. We shall always 
be subject to temptations, and infirmities, in 
the highest state of grace; but faith, strong, 
constant faith, in the merits of Christ, will en- 
able us to surmount every obstacle. That this 
may be your unspeakable, and happy portion, 
is the prayer of your unworthy sister. God has 
done much for the people this year, in reviving 
his work on different parts of the circuit. 

" Elizabeth Ann." 

to her parents. 

" Granville, May 19, 1837. 
^^ Dear Parents, — Mr. M. having given a 
sketch of the news, I can only write a line in 
the hurry of business. We are expecting to go 
to Belchertown next year. If we should, do 
not fail of visiting us, as we shall be some 50 
miles nearer your dwelling than we now are. 
The Lord has been very good to us during the 
past year. We have not been obliged to call 



172 MEMOIR or 

in a physician during the year. We have re- 
ceived but little this year, and our expenses 
have been but light. We have not paid out a 
cent for butter, cheese, or meat, during the 
year. We have now a very interesting revival 
in the town of Middlefield, in the bounds of the 
Troy Conference. Next Monday eve, Mr. M. 
returns there again. Yours in love, 

" E. A. MOULTON." 

The revival referred to in the last letter, in 
the town of Middlefield, is worthy of a more 
public notice than it has yet received, owing to 
the circumstances that attended it. Having 
closed up all our protracted efforts on the cir- 
cuit, and having a special invitation from one 
of the young sisters in our new church in 
Blandford, who was about to go to Middlefield, 
and spend a season with her sister, to come up 
and preach in her brother's house, an owner of 
one of the factories in the place, I consented 
to go. Said she, " If you will come up and 
preach, there will be a revival.'' I went. Peter- 
like; and having arrived, the meeting was given 
out, and the people soon met for worship. At 
the close of the sermon, it was evident that the 
word of God had taken effect. None, however, 
rose for prayers. I appointed another meeting 
for the next evening, and closed. The Lord 
had so deeply convicted one young lady, who 
lived in the boarding-house, that she could not 
rest, neither did she give any that were in the 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 173 

house, rest, so ardent were her cries for mercy ; 
fearing as she did, that she had sinned away 
the day of grace, because she was ashamed to 
confess Christ at the meeting. The next even- 
ing the village was all awake. The house was 
filled at an early hour, and the street was 
thronged with a company of the baser sort, 
marching up and down, roaring for their prey, 
and making occasionally hideous yells. Some 
of my friends, learning the signs of the times, 
locked up my horse in the barn ; not even think- 
ing they would injure my wagon, they let it re- 
main under the shed. The meeting was awfully 
solemn, many having been alarmed by the cries 
of the girl during the previous night. After 
prayer-meeting and sermon, a goodly number 
came out for prayers, and several, I think, were 
converted. As soon as the meeting closed, all 
was still without. But the next morning re- 
vealed the workings of the devil, in a manner 
that it had never been seen before in that vil- 
lage. For these agents of the devil had fallen 
upon my carriage, disfiguring it, cutting the 
thorough-braces, and throwing some parts of it 
into the river, &/C. &c. This was providentially 
overruled for good ; for it brought out all the 
good, to sympathize with me, and also detained 
me much longer than I should otherwise have 
tarried ; the work went on gloriously while 
I was there, a period of about three weeks in 
all. And perhaps no people poured their 
blessings upon me more profusely than they did. 
15 



174 MEMOIR OF 

My companion never murmured at any such 
persecution, but rejoiced that we were counted 
worthy to suffer for His name. 

Our Conference year now drawing to a close, 
I started, witli my wife and daughter, for Con- 
ference, expecting to leave them at Monson, 
and proceed on to Nantucket, a distance of 
more than two hundred miles from Granville. 
While on our way to Monson, two events oc- 
curred, which were peculiarly hazardous to our 
lives. Our preservation from death, in this 
time of trouble, I have always attributed to the 
over-ruling hand of God. First, while on our 
journey, in the village of West Springfield, our 
horse took fright, just at dark, and ran with all 
his speed, being unmanageable for a while ; — 
still God preserved us from the imminent dan- 
ger, to which we were then exposed. I can 
hardly look back upon it without shuddering. 
Elizabeth, as calm as a summer's evening, held 
on to her little child, until I gained command 
of the horse. To God be all the praise, for his 
preserving mercy ! We arrived in safety at 
Springfield, and put up at Dr. Bassett's. 

While on our way to Monson, the next morn- 
ing, we met two^men, in a wa^n, at a tub of 
water, (both horses drinking at the same time,) 
the wind blowing fresh from them towards us. 
We observed that the face of one of the men 
was shockingly swollen, and wondered what 
could be the matter. I thought but little more 
of it, until I had arrived near New Bedford, or 



ELIZABETH AIS^ MOULTON. 175 

Nantucket. I was then asked by one of the 
preachers from Springfield, if I had heard of a 
man as I passed through the place, who was 
taken up a few miles east of Springfield, and 
carried into town, in an open wagon, almost 
dead with the small-pox ; which circumstance 
greatly terrified its inhabitants. I said, " No !" 
But it occurred to my mind immediately, that 
he was the man whom I met at the watering- 
trough ; and for the moment, I remembered, 
with a thrill of amazement, how fresh the wind 
must have blown the poisonous infection from 
him, into all our faces. I had not much doubt 
then, that my wife and child, who had never 
been vaccinated for the kine-pox, had both 
taken the disease. I was in an agony of suffer- 
ing ; but concluded to write, directing the post 
master to forward the letter as soon as it ar- 
rived, without fail. 

The next day I wrote again, and both letters 
arrived at the same time. The reception of 
these unexpected letters, coming in the way 
they did, greatly affected my wife, (her health 
at this time being rather delicate,) and pro- 
duced such a shock upon her physical system, 
that the result was not only feeble health for 
several months, but the loss of a little son, who 
found an untimely grave. 

But the plague we so much dreaded was not 
permitted to come nigh our dwelling. God re- 
moved the plague in answer to agonizing and 
prevailing prayer. Thus was the pathway of 



176 MEMOIR. 

my dear friend strewn with trials and anxieties 
all the way to heaven ; but every one only 
brought her nearer and nearer the gate of end- 
less joy. 



CHAPTER X. 



At Nantucket, we received our appointment 
to Belchertown and Three Rivers, where we 
divided our labors among the people. The fol- 
lowing is an extract of a letter directed to her 
parents, soon after Conference, dated 

" MoNsoN, June 25, 1837. 

''Dear Parents, — Mr. M. has gone for our 
goods, and will probably return to-morrow eve- 
ning. I would just inform you that the small- 
pox is raging in the town of Springfield. As 
we were passing through the place, we met a 
man just taken down with it. His head was 
swollen as big as the size of two. They were 
then carrying him to the pest-house. We since 
learned that he did not live to arrive there. 
For a while, learning the circumstances, we 
were very much alarmed, fearing that we had 
all taken it ; but we have been mercifully pre- 
served. After we learned our exposure, our 
*15 



Its teEMOlfe OF 

friends hastened immediately to Springfield^ 
and obtained some vaccine matter, with which 
myself and daughter were vaccinated for the 
kine-pox ; but serious results are anticipated 
relative to our fright. Elizabeth." 

In consequence of feeble health and other 
circumstances, Elizabeth did not labor so much 
abroad as usual this year. She attended two 
or three protracted meetings with me, on our 
own charge; and still continued in all the 
means of grace within her reach, in the place 
where we lived. Elizabeth became so much 
attached to the little church in Belchertown, 
that it was harder for her to leave here than 
any previous appointment, notwithstanding ouf 
support was hardly enough to keep soul and 
body together. But when the people did not 
give us enough, for our comfort, God gave her 
strength to earn it with her shears. It was 
always a principle with Elizabeth, to live with- 
in our income, and never run in debt for any 
thing which we could do without. 

We formed three new classes this year, and 
I labored much abroad at protracted meetings. 

The two following letters were Written to her 
sisters. It will here be seen that the blessing 
of entire sanctification is still her theme. In 
every place where she has been, I think she has 
been the means of leading souls to this blessed 
fullness. Truly, no doctrine of the cross ever 
so elated her soul as the faithful preaching of 



^lirZABETH ANN SlOULTON. i1f9 

full salvation; and upon no subject did her 
soul so delight to dwell. 

" Belchertown, Nov. 20, 1837. 
" Dear Sister : — I gladly embrace this op- 
opportunity of writing you a few lines. Various 
have been the changes through which I have 
passed, since I last saw you. Some light af- 
flictions, for so I would call them, have been 
mingled with my cup of prosperity, the past 
season ; but the blessings which I have received 
from my kind Preserver, have far out-balanced 
them all. You heard of my misfortune on the 
21st of July. My disappointment w^as so great, 
that I found it hard to submit, until I con- 
sidered the mercy of God in preserving my life, 
and in so soon raising me up to my accustomed 
health again ; then I felt entire resignation to 
the Providence of an all-wise God. The good 
Lord is dealing bountifully with my soul. I 
think I never enjoyed so long a season of unin- 
terrupted peace as of late. Since our protracted 
meeting which closed about six weeks since, I 
think I have enjoyed the blessing of perfect 
iove more clearly than ever before. Some in our 
church have experienced this great salvation, 
and others are seeking for it. May God help 
them to believe. I think, my dear sister, that I 
prize this blessing higher than ever. I am de- 
termined to hold it up before my brethren, and 
live it. I am sensible that God has spared my 
life for some farther tisefulness in the church. 



IgO MEMOIR OF 

I feel that my station in life is very responsible,- 
and I wish that it may be filled up with useful- 
ness, and that I may so live on earth, as that I 
may gain heaven, and join the innumerable 
host above, who have washed their robes and 
made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 
As to our pecuniary affairs, we are prospering 
about as usual. We live in an excellent little 
society. The little branches within our charge 
are on good ground. We have not as yet had 
a great number of conversions, but are expect- 
ing greater things before the year closes. It is 
now a time of revival all around us. Glory to 
God, peace on earth and good will to men ! 
Our little girl is well, and can go to meeting, 
and find our pew alone. She sometimes says, 
"how they do shout, ma!" and appears to en- 
joy it much. Mr. M. has been absent most of 
the time for four or five weeks past, attending 
protracted meetings, and I am at home working 
at my trade, when well enough. I trust you 
are still striving for heaven, and have frequent 
foretastes of your future inheritance. Go on, 
and may God vouchsafe His choicest blessings 
to you both. E. Moulton." 

" Belchertown, Dec. 14, 1837. 
" Very dear Sister : — With grateful emo- 
tions I retire from the busy cares of life to 
spend an hour in addressing you, through the 
medium of my pen. I am at home with a great 
supply of work, and Mr. M. is now holding a 



liLIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 181 

protracted meeting in the north part of the 
town. A number have been converted at this 
meeting, and many are enquiring the way to 
Zion. To God be all the glory ! We have en- 
joyed no special revival on our cliarge this 
year, but have had good and interesting meet- 
ings. Our church stands in the liberty, and 
we are all united together in the bonds of 
christian union, expecting the Lord will yet 
grant us a gracious visitation ; yea, w« believe 
the work has already commenced in one part 
of the town. O pray for us, that the Spirit 
may have free course, run and be glorified ; 
that the great Head of the church may ride 
triurtiphantly through these barren regions and 
subdue the people. Although various have 
been the changes, through which I have passed 
since I last saw you, yet God has been very 
merciful to us. I never felt more like serving 
Him than for a few months past. Religion to 
me is indeed a glorious treasure. I trust you 
are still pursuing your course towards heaven. 
Be faithful and the Lord will make you burning 
and shining lights in the place where you live. 
I am glad that your health is improving. I am 
obliged to be exceedingly careful about taking 
cold, as my head still troubles me. For this 
reason i go out but very little this winter. But 
O, how good the Lord is to unworthy me ! 
What shall I render unto Him for all His bene- 
fits ? ' I will take the cup of salvation and 
'sall on the name of the Lord.' 



182 MEMOIR OF 

The journal proceeds : 

April 10, 1833. — "How swiftly has the 
last conference year passed away ; and how 
little have I done to promote the cause of God. 
Still, God has been my supporter through all 
the changes of the year. I am strongly at- 
tached to the little flock in this place. The 
brethren have been kind to us, and well en- 
gaged in the work of the Lord. I am thankful 
that my lot has been cast here, although we 
have not had so many conversions as we ex- 
pected.'' 

The following are a kw scraps without date, 
which may be interesting to the reader : 

" O how fleeting is time ! How fast its gold- 
en moments fly ! Scarcely does the dawn of 
life begin, ere we are called from this stage of 
action to try the unknown realities of an eter- 
nal scene. Who that realizes the worth, and 
shortness of time, can suffer his hours, or even 
his moments, to pass unemployed ? Were we 
to consider that time is given us for improve- 
ment, and that we shall be held strictly 
accountable for the abuse of it, could we 
suffer so many precious moments to run to 
waste ? I have often been astonished at the 
carelessness and inattention manifested by so 
many with regard to its improvement. There 
is much for us to do, — and yet many of us 
live, as though there was nothing at stake, re- 
gardless not only of time and the shortness of 




ELIZABETH ANN MO'CLTON. 183 

it, but of a future state, and its awful retribu- 
tions. When I look around, and behold the 
vanity of all sublunary things, I am led to con- 
template the goodness and mercy of God, in 
that my feet have been turned into his testi- 
monies." 

" Religion is a source whence true happiness 
springs. In all the paths of human life we may 
find substantial peace from this source. With 
this heavenly treasure we are ha})py amidst all, 
the snares and temptations which surround us. 
Religion is a blessing which all may receive 
and enjoy. It is this that will make the rough 
paths of nature even, and calm the troubled 
mind, when sorrows and afflictions beset our 
way, and all before us seems dark and dreary. 
And that God, who is the bestower of this sal- 
vation, has offered it freely to all, — therefore 
all may come, partake, and be happy. My 
mind has often been shocked at the depravity 
of human nature; the wilfulness and stubborn- 
ness of the natural heart — that heart which 
ought to be devoted to the service of our hea- 
venly Benefactor and Redeemer. It is certain, 
we all wish to be happy, and are seeking for it 
in different ways ; but there is only one way, 
and one source, from which we can derive true 
happiness, and that is, in the service of God. 
In his service there is great recompense of re- 
ward, even that peace which is like a river, con- 
tinually flowing from its fountain. 

" Elizabeth." 



184 STEMOTR OF 

** Prayer is appointed to convey the blessing? 
God designs to give. Prayer is the key that 
unlocks Iteaven^ and brings down the blessings 
from above. Christians should attend to the 
exercise of prayer, and mingle this duty with 
all their concerns in life. How can a christian, 
who knows the worth of prayer, expect to pros" 
per in the neglect of this duty? The truly 
faithful, in all ages, we shall find to have been 
men of persevering and ardent prayer, living 
constantly in the prayerful exercise of faith. 
Moses, Noah and Daniel, were men who al- 
ways prevailed with God in prayer. Many are 
the promises made to the faithful, praying souls. 
How encouraging this to the poor penitent, and 
to all the church of God. And God is not 
slack concerning his promises, but wiH provide 
a way of deliverance to all who call upon him, 
O, may it ever be my delight to pray, while I tab- 
ernacle in this vale of human wo ! so that when 
time with me shall be no more I may hear the 
welcome plaudit, ' come ye blessed of my Fa- 
ther, enter ye into the joys of the Lord.' 

" Elizabeth." 

" For many years I have professed to be a 
follower of Jesus Christ, the Savior of lost 
men. At an early period in my christian expe- 
rience, I became convinced that holiness of 
heart, and nothing short of it, would qualify me 
for a dwelling place in the kingdom of glory. 
Viewing as I did in some degree the extensive 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 185 

nature of the gospel requirements, and the ne- 
cessity of being pure within, I frequently called 
upon the name of the Lord, with special refer- 
ence to this important subject. Notwithstand- 
ing I had an evidence within that my sins were 
forgiven, yet, to my sorrow, I found that I 
came far short of possessing such a state of 
mind, as would enable me to ' rejoice evermore, 
pray without ceasing, and in every thing give 
thanks.' From reading the scriptures, with 
prayerful attention, together with the writings 
of eminently pious and holy persons, I was con- 
vinced that I came far short of enjoying the 
fullness of the Savior's love, and that it was my 
duty to * leave the principles of the doctrine of 
Christ and go on unto perfection.' Convincing 
testimony presented itself to my mind frequent- 
ly, that it was the privilege and duty of the 
children of God to have a constant evidence 
within of their acceptance with Him. But see- 
ing my need of full salvation, I delayed too 
long; unbelief, or some unlawful indulgence, 
kept me, as I fear it does many others, from 
coming right into its possession, and enjoying 
its powerful and renovating influence. Not- 
withstanding all my backwardness and unfaith- 
fulness in seeking this invaluable blessing, I 
feel to praise God that I did, in about one year 
after my conversion, resolve to give my whole 
heart to him, to serve Him with undivided af- 
fections, and give up every thing that should 



16 



186 MEMOIR OF 

keep me from enjoying a fullness of this gospel 
grace, which God has promised to all the faithful. 

" Elizabeth." 

The following year, we were stationed at 
Marlborough. This appointment my companion 
hailed with joy. It was with the society in 
this place, that she first united, when living in 
Bolton. Many of her friends with whom she 
first enjoyed church fellowship, were still living 
members in the church of God. Although this 
church had been badly rent by various dissen- 
sions, during her absence from it; yet, there 
were still remaining some who appeared to be 
pillars in the church of God. 

At our arrival, the brethren, as well as our- 
selves, were much encouraged ; for we now 
learned that they were anticipating our services, 
and this was an additional satisfaction to us. 
As soon as we were settled, we commenced 
operations, and the living members seconded 
all our efforts in helping build up the church. 
After cutting off some dead branches, a revival 
commenced, which continued, gradually in- 
creasing, during the conference year. 

This year we made a long protracted effort 
in the town of Stowe, for the salvation of sin- 
ners. We commenced by holding a meeting 
in the grove, which continued some two weeks. 
At this time there was no meeting held in the 
town, except by the Unitarians, and this was 
thinly attended. Our protracted meeting shook 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 187 

this old church to its centre, and had it not 
been for the f^ict that they immediately dis- 
missed their minister, and settled a new one, 
they probably would never have recovered. Sev- 
eral having experienced justifying grace at 
this meeting, and the excitement having be- 
come general, we immediately procured a hall, 
and commenced Sabbath preaching with a good 
prospect for building up a church of Christ. 
A few Presbyterians living in this town, watched 
all our movements, and thinking probably that 
now would be the time for them to strike, as 
they had already a minister in the place, who was 
teaching a high school, they commenced hold- 
ing meetings Sabbaths, side by side, with ours. 
These two new Sabbath congregations havinor 
sprung up so suddenly in the town, greatly di- 
vided the feelings of the inhabitants, and were 
the means of giving a sudden check to the 
work of conviction on sinners' hearts. By the 
aid of a local preacher, however, we continued 
Sabbath preaching there almost one year, 
struggling for victory, but were at last obliged 
to yield the ground to the Congregationalists, 
who finally reaped most of our fruit, and raised 
up a church there ; and they have since en- 
joyed permanently the stated means of grace. 

This is the first time in our short history 
that we have been obliged to give up to any 
other denomination under such circumstances. 
My companion labored and suffered with me, 
day and night, during our protracted effort in 



188 MEMOIR OF 

Stowe, to advance the interests of the Re- 
deemer's Kingdom. She spent most of her 
time, however, this year in Marlborough. Here 
she put forth all her strength in the vineyard, 
when circumstances would permit, only occa- 
sionally going abroad with me to protracted 
meetings. 

The following extract of a letter was written 
to her sister, Lucy Warren — she having expect- 
ed to meet her at their parents, in Lunenburg — 
and is dated 

" Sept. 14, 1838. 

'' Dear Sister : — We were much disap- 
pointed in not seeing you at Lunenburg. We 
tarried there more than a week ; during this 
time, Mr. M. held a protracted meeting in the 
place, at which Sarah Marsh found the pearl of 
great price, and a few others. The prospect 
was quite good for a general revival, when we 
left. We like our station in M. very much 
this year. We have already had a number of 
conversions, and the prospect is good for a 
glorious work. Pray for us, that the Spirit 
may have free course, run, and be glorified 
among us. I have enjoyed much peace of mind 
the summer past, and realize that it is of the 
greatest importance to live in readiness for 
death. O heaven ! it looks worth possessing ! 
At times I long to be there. O happy thought, 
to be for ever shut in with Christ, for ever freed 
from sickness, pain, and death, and for ever 
joined to the innumerable company of holy 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 189 

spirits, who have gone before us, singing loud 
hallelujahs to Him who sitteth upon the throne 
for ever and ever. O delightful theme ! O blessed 
thought ! We'll try to be faithful, and meet 
then, if not before. Here on this earthly ball 
we wander up and down to seek the lost sheep 
of the house of Israel, having no abiding place 
or continuing city ; but blessed be God, I trust 
we are seeking one that hath foundation, 
Christ being the chief corner stone. Then 
let us leave no duty undone. Much, very 
much, is devolving upon the christian. I be- 
lieve it is very possible that souls may, and do 
go to ruin, through the negligence of the chris- 
tian. Terrible thought, indeed ! Shall I be 
one of that heedless number ! O no. Me- 
thinks, I '11 bear the cross, and despise the 
shame. I '11 try to make every effort to gain 
heaven myself, and win others to go there too. 

'' E. A. MoULTON." 

The following extract was written to her 
adopted sister, dated 

" Marlborough, Dec. 9, 1838. 
" My Dear Louisa : — Your short letter 
came to hand soon after date. We are very 
pleasantly situated this year, and possibly we 
shall never be stationed so near you again. I 
rejoice to learn by your letter, that you feel the 
importance of securing an interest in Christ. 
O my dear L., how would my heart rejoice, 
yea, leap for joy, could I hear that you had 
»16 



190 MEMOIR OF 

found the heavenly pearl. You say that you 
have not yet met with a change. Let me tell 
you then, noiv is the accepted time and the day 
of salvation. O do not neglect your soul, that 
better part, which must eternally exist, either in 
happiness or misery. We have had some very 
refreshing seasons of revival since we came 
here. About thirty have passed from death 
unto life, and joined our church on probation ; 
and christians are coming up to the help of the 
Lord against the mighty foe. I have been en- 
gaged as a teacher in the Sabbath School during 
the season past. One of my class has experi- 
enced religion recently, and was received into 
the church on trial last Sabbath. 

" E. A. MOULTON." 

The revival mentioned in the Jast letter, in 
which Mrs. M. took such a thrilling interest, 
consisted not only in the renewing of the hearts 
of the people, but in reviving up the principles 
of the temperance cause in the minds of many. 
The temperance reformation lay almost as near 
the heart of my companion as did the salvation 
of the soul. And never, to my recollection, 
did she refuse, or neglect, to administer reproof, 
at home or abroad, to all who used intoxicating 
drinks. Tobacco, too, " that filthy weed, which 
from the devil did proceed," often from her re- 
ceived a just rebuke, when in a christian's mouth 
or nose. Often has she plead with the drunk- 
ard, spraqtimes under his own roof, to dash the 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 191 

poisonous cup from his mouth, with an eloquence 
that would break the hardest heart, and melt it 
into tears. 

The Sabbath School, in which Mrs. M. always 
took a deep and abiding interest, increased to 
thrice its former numbers this year, and a large 
accession was made to the library. Perfect 
unity was restored to the church; a goodly 
number converted and added to it, and twenty 
or more professed to experience the blessing of 
entire sanctification. A more loving and de- 
voted society we never watched over, and the 
fellowship of no church did Elizabeth ever enjoy 
more than this. 

The following extract of a letter was directed 
to her parents, dated 

''Marlborough, Jan. 21, 1839. 

" Dear Parents : — I sit down to address 
you a few moments this eve. Mr. M, expects 
to start for Cambridgeport in the morning, to 
attend an Anti- Slavery Convention, and will 
then go to Boston to attend another, before he 
returns. His time has been principally taken 
up of late, in preparing for a discussion with 
Mr. Greenwood, a Universalist minister, on the 
two following propositions : 1st, Do the Scrip- 
tures teach the future and unending misery of 
any of the human race ? 2d, Do the Scriptures 
teach the future and unending happiness of all 
the human race? On the first proposition, Mr. 
M. took the affirmative, and on the second, the 
negative. Much interest is already felt by both 



192 MEMOIR OF 

parties. Come, if possible, and hear the de- 
bate. The Lord has been with, and blessed us, 
the present year. Mr. Hunt, with whom we 
live, his wife, his .sons, and one of his son's 
wives, and her mother, have all recently become 
the subjects of converting grace. These are 
joyful times. I hope you are both enjoying a 
good degree of the love of God shed abroaa in 
your hearts. Time is rapidly flying, and we 
are tending towards the tomb. O, let us be up 
and doing, all that in us lies, to prepare for 
death and eternity, even for happiness and 
heaven. E. A. Moulton." 

The discussion with Mr. Greenwood, referred 
to in the above letter, excited much interest 
among the Universalists in several towns. Mr. 
G. having gained some advantage over my pre- 
decessor the year previous, in a public meeting, 
in obtaining an answer from him on an 
important question, without forethought, which 
made him acknowledge, by the quotation 
of another passage of Scripture, that Christ 
had already come in his Kingdom, and 
judged the world, the Universalists, being 
elated with the success of their minister, in 
thus catching my predecessor in his words, in- 
troduced him to me as a champion of their 
faith, and dared me to meet him in public de- 
bate. This challenge brought about a discus- 
cussion, which, in its results, roused up the 
whole fraternity of Universalists, throughout 
the length and breadth of their dominions. 



ELIZABETH ANW MOULTON. 193 

Never did I know my wife to be more deeply 
interested for the result of any enterprise, 
than for this. She therefore ardently prayed 
for weeks, that God's truth might prevail, error 
be refuted, and infidelity receive a mortal check 
by this discussion. So deeply interested did 
our church feel, too, with regard to the conse- 
quence of this debate, that we appointed a day 
of prayer and fasting that God would confirm 
his word by signs following, and truly the Spirit 
of God pervaded the audience during the entire 
discussion, and instead of checking the revival 
influence in our church, as some supposed it 
would, it advanced it. 

The conversion of the family referred to in 
her last letter, was an illustration of the power 
of example and personal effort. The example 
of Mrs. M. was not only considered uniform by 
this family, but truly Christian, which undoubt- 
edly had a happy influence on their minds. 
Elizabeth too, not only interested their minds 
frequently in religious subjects, but made them 
objects of special prayer, both in the family 
and in her private devotion ; the appropriate 
fruit of which, v/ith other instrumentalities, soon 
appeared in the conversion of the family. This 
almost unexpected miracle of Divine grace, in the 
salvation of this household, under our own roof, 
was a source of unspeakable joy to Elizabeth. 

February 2, 1839, our little son, Theodore 
Weld, was born. This additional care of anoth- 
er precious immortal, necessarily detained Mrs. 



194 MEMOIR OF 

M. at home most of the winter. Our little son 
received his name from the following circum- 
stance : — Mr. Theodore Weld, of New York, 
wrote to me some time during the fall, desiring 
me to give him an account of my views of the 
evils of slavery, for publication. To this I 
consented, and for which I received a pamphlet, 
in which I was associated with one thousand 
witnesses against the enormous evils of slavery. 
Saying to my wife one day, " what shall we call 
the name of our son?" our little daughter 
immediately answered, ** Theodore Weld." To 
this we both assented, praying that he might 
live and become as pure an abolitionist as the 
man after whom he was named. 

The following extract of a letter was address- 
ed to her brother and sister Warren, dated 

'' Marlborough, May 13, 1839. 
" Dear Br. and Sister : — You may think, 
having delayed so long to answer your letter, 
that I have almost forgotten you ; but I will 
assure you that this is not the case. Other and 
weightier concerns have occupied my mind 
since I received your last. Doubtless you have 
heard that I am the mother of a little son, three 
months old. I have carried him to meeting six 
Sabbaths, all day — so you may judge of his 
good nature. I now belong to a Bible class in 
the Sunday School. We have a flourishing 
school of about one hundred members. We 
have had a good revival the present year. The 



ELIZABETH AJSN MOULTOW. 195 

church is well united, and our meetings are 
well attended. I feel much attached to this 
dear people, but the time of our departure is at 
hand, as you know we are one-year-in-a-place 
folks. Where we shall go is quite uncertain. 
Were I to consult my own feelings and wishes, 
I should bend my course towards your region, 
but I must submit to the openings of Provi- 
dence, and thereby be directed. 

" E. A. MOULTON." 

The reader may learn from one sentence in 
this last letter, the strong attachment Mrs. M. 
had for the public means of grace. With a 
child only three months old, she had been to 
meeting with it six Sabbaths all day ; having the 
additional care also, of her little girl, who had al- 
ways been to meeting with her from five weeks 
old to this time, with a very few exceptions. With 
this care upon her mind, she enjoyed the preach- 
ing of the word, and during the intermission at 
noon recited her lesson in the Bible class, and 
returned home after meeting in the afternoon, 
with her little ones, richly laden with the bless- 
ings of the gospel. And all this perseverance 
was under the additional weight of feeble 
health. Many an exhortation has fallen from 
her lips in the public congregation with a child 
in her arms. Her personal efforts, during in- 
termissions, on Sabbaths, have been great bless- 
ings to many, to whom she could have no ac- 
cess, except on these occasions. Mrs. M. was 



196 MEMOIR. 

emphatically a church-going, and a church- 
working Christian. She never stayed from 
meeting herself, nor permitted her children to, 
unless she thought it absolutely necessary ; be- 
ing regardless of the speeches of the more 
delicate, who sometimes thought her persevering 
course imprudent. 



CHAPTER XI. 



Mrs. M. was very anxious to stay in Marl- 
borough another year, as the church were 
mostly desirous that we should; but on the 
other hand, I was strongly impressed, that it 
was our duty to be removed to a new field of 
labor, having been convinced for years that we 
could be more useful to change stations every 
year. But when we learned where our next 
appointment was, then did I deeply regret, for 
my wife's sake, that we were removed. I had 
now become more convinced too, that the 
anxieties and fatigue of moving yearly, leaving 
dear friends, and forming new associations, had 
a great tendency to produce an unhappy effect 
upon the health of my companion. Notwith- 
standing these misgivings, and heart relentings, 
when it was too late to remedy them, as a kind 
Providence ordered our affairs, we moved twice 
the following year, and once every year until 
death removed my partner from my embrace. 
17 



198 MEMOIR OF 

Hers truly was a life of toil, deep anxiety, and 
vicissitude. But she ever clung to this princi- 
ple, that it was better to wear out than to rust 
out. 

Occasionally, when preparing for meeting, or 
for a journey, in anticipation of a storm, I 
have advised her to defer going, her answer 
would usually contain the following sentiment, 
** I am neither sugar nor salt, that I should 
melt," — always believingj when God called 
her to the performance of any duty, however 
insurmountable it might appear to the world. 
He would give her grace and strength to per- 
form it. 

The time having now arrived for our depart- 
ure from Marlborough, we with great reluct- 
ance went to work, packed up our goods, and 
started for our new field of labor in Billerica. 
The very idea, however, of making this place 
the scene of our labors and toils for one year, 
knowing the situation of things there, made us 
both feel sick at heart. But the decree having 
passed, on we went with heavy hearts. Having 
arrived, we were directed to Br. Howes, in 
whose house we obtained an excellent tene- 
ment in which to dwell. Br. Sereno Fisk, who 
had become very rich by the recent death of a 
brother at the South, had pledged to the con- 
ference the support of a preacher, should one 
be sent there. Br. Fisk had been instru- 
mental the year previous in collecting a small 
congregation by calling into the place, in his 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 199 

employ, a few Methodist families, and several 
young men. This year the shoe-making busi- 
ness being rather dull, he was obliged to cur- 
tail his operations, and this of course would 
have a tendency to diminish our floating church 
and congregation. But having now located 
ourselves in the place, we soon surveyed the 
length and breadth of the town and of our 
parish, and learned that the town contained 
about 1300 inhabitants, with four organized 
churches, and nine regular licensed drunkeries. 
We also learned that the Universalists and Uni- 
tarians, who composed the main body of the 
people, possessed bitter prejudices against the 
Methodists. Some of these families refused to 
associate with us, and even refused us admit- 
tance into their dwellings, while visiting from 
house to house, fearing our object was to gain 
proselytes from their churches, knowing well 
that there were already more denominations in 
town than the people could sustain. 

The first holy Sabbath having come, we 
were directed, for our place of worship, to the 
extreme north part of the town, into a small 
school-house, located near by two licensed 
grog-shops, where some boatmen and loafers 
kept holiday, while we were worshipping in the 
school-house. To rise above these discourage- 
ments, with no human prospect of bettering our 
condition, needed stronger faith than we pos- 
sessed. But having commenced, we thought 
we must make the best of a perilous situation ; 



200 MEMOIR OF 

and therfore began as usual, to visit all classes 
in the community. In the performance of this 
duty, for the first time, we failed of success — 
all parties suspecting our motives. We then 
made arrangements to hold a few evening meet- 
ings successively, and after toiling about two 
weeks, making every effort to save souls, our 
prospects brightened a little. Two or three 
were hopefully converted. We then invited a 
number of our most engaged brethren from 
Lowell to come and help move the wheels of 
salvation. Several came, filled with the good 
spirit. They prayed in agony, shouted freely, 
and exhorted powerfully, but so novel were the 
exercises of these brethren, to the people in 
this place, who were wholly unaccustomed to 
such performances, that instead of this meet- 
ing's advancing the interests of our revival, it 
well nigh put out what little fire had been kin- 
dled, by throwing a counteracting influence in 
the way of all our efforts afterwards. We then 
adjourned our meeting to the village in the 
centre of the town ; called in help from abroad, 
and continued some two weeks longer, with but 
little apparent good resulting from our labors. 
Seeing now no prospect of building up a per- 
manent church here, we felt discouraged and 
disheartened. With these feelings, my study 
became a prison to me. My wife noticing my 
depression of spirits, although as much de- 
jected as myself, began to encourage me to 
trust in the Lord, that He would direct our steps. 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 201 

The derangement of Br. Fisk's business af- 
fairs were such now ihat we did not think it his 
duty to be responsible for our support any lon- 
ger, under our embarrassed circumstances; 
neither would our consciences permit us to 
spunge our living out of him without making 
him any compensation, or without a prospect 
of doing the people any good. I therefore ad- 
dressed a letter privately to the Presiding El- 
der, wfio was the means of my coming here, 
entreating him to provide for us another field of 
labor ; but he gave no affirmative response to 
my prayer. I then wrote to another Presiding 
Elder, and consulted with my own, (Br. Othe- 
man,) but none could help us out of our diffi- 
culties. Having now toiled and suffered with 
my companion six months, and our prospects 
for doing good growing darker and darker, I 
came to an honorable adjustment in our finan- 
cial affairs with my employer. I had no sooner 
closed my mission here than I had a call to go 
to Wellfleet, on the Cape, and supply the place 
of Br. I. M. Bidwell, whose health had failed 
him. Myself and wife both believed this call 
was from the Lord ; and I therefore responded to 
it. Before I take my leave however, I will in- 
troduce to the readers a part of the correspond- 
ence of Mrs. M. during her first six months' 
residence in Billerica, that they may know how 
she prospered when adverse winds blew, 
and disappointments met us at every turn. 



17 



202 MEMOIR OF 

The following letter was written to Br. and 
sister Warren soon after she removed to Bille- 
rica, dated 

" July 21, 1839. 

" Dear Br. and Sister ; — I again take up 
my pen to address to you a few lines. We are 
now pleasantly settled in this place. We had 
not the most distant thoughts however of com- 
ing here. We are to receive our salary princi- 
pally from one man who is rich in this world's 
goods. Our society is in its infancy. We 
number about 25 members only in the church, 
and these are mostly transient members. We 
meet in a small school-house in the north part 
of the town, on the Sabbath ; and at five 
o'clock, in the Tavern Hall, where we unite 
with the Congregationalists and Baptists, in 
trying to pull down the strongholds of Satan's 
kingdom. Our way is as yet rather dark before 
us, but we hope and pray for success. I sup- 
pose fou are happy to return back to Holden 
again, where you can enjoy your former church 
privileges. May you be rendered blessings to 
the church and society where you live. I want 
you to inform me respecting your health, and 
the prosperity of your souls in the way to hea- 
ven ; whether Louisa has yet found the Savior, 
&c. Remember me in your prayers, and may 
we all at last meet in heaven. 

" E. A. MOULTON." 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 203 

The following letter was addressed to sister 
Emeline Moore of Marlboro', dated 

" BiLLERicA, Oct. 17, 1839. 
" Dear Sister Emeline : — After some delay, 
I sit down to answer your letter. I am glad 
that you are pressing your way onward towards 
heaven. I perceive by your epistle, that your 
motto is still JioUness. I hope and trust you 
will never be satisfied with any thing short of 
this inestimable blessing ; for surely, it is the 
marrow of the gospel. I have enjoyed this 
blessing, in all its fullness ; and for weeks and 
months could say, ' I know that my Redeemer 
lives' in mi/ soul But, dear sister, I do not feel 
all that divine fullness that I have in past time ; 
yet, I am praying to get deeper into the work. 
We have had some good seasons even here, but 
no special revival. We only number two con- 
versions. For these we are very thankful to 
God. Several have been reclaimed from back- 
sliding ; and to God be all the glory ! I have 
my doubts whether it was in the order of Divine 
Providence that we were appointed to this 
place. I think we might have been more useful 
somewhere else. We have been using some 
extra exertions to promote the Redeemer's 
kingdom, but to little purpose. We are too 
circumscribed, and cannot put forth our ener- 
gies as we would. I fear this year will not 
pass as sweetly away as the last. O pray for 
us, dear Emeline. We were much surprised 



204 MEMOIR OF 

to hear of the sudden death of the Rev. Mr. 
Goodhue. I think that I can truly sympathize 
with his dear wife, having once been left a 
lonely widow. I trust she will be sustained, 
and have grace to support her in this time of 
need. I hope, ere this, you are having a good 
revival in Marlboro'. 

'* Do not forget to pray for us while in this 
barren region. I sometimes think we cannot 
be contented here until our year closes ; but I 
am resolved still to press onward towards 
heaven, knowing that the promise is to them 
who endure unto the end. Professors here ap- 
pear to be mostly asleep, and sinners, gay and 
thoughtless, are rushing their way down to 
ruin. O when will they awake ! When will they 
see their danger and flee to Christ! I fear 
many of them here will mourn at the last, when 
they shall see how many invitations, and warn- 
ings they have slighted ; even when God shall 
swear in his wrath, they shall not enter into his 
rest. E. A. Moulton." 

The time had now come to take my leave of 
my wife and the two little ones. After com- 
mending them to the care of the Almighty for 
protection, I started for Boston, and from 
thence sailed in a packet for Wellfleet, just as 
that noted December gale began to blow. After 
combatting with the waves a few hours, the 
captain run his vessel back into the harbor, and 
after the storm had passed, he landed all safe in 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 205 

Wellfleet. I now realized what it was to for- 
sake all for Christ and the gospel. During this 
cold winter, perhaps no one ever exhibited more 
of christian meekness and fortitude, than did 
my wife. Not a murmur escaped her lips dur- 
ing the almost three months during which we 
were separated, notwithstanding she had an in- 
fant at her breast, and no one to help her. She 
truly felt that God had called her to suffer His 
will, and she cheerfully acquiesced. Sometimes, 
as her health was rather feeble, she felt that it 
was hard for nature to submit to the allotments 
of Providence. She was careful in her letters 
to me, however, not to say a word about the 
poor state of lier health, and severe trials, 
fearing undoubtedly it would afflict my feelings 
and embarrass my usefulness. But the follow- 
ing extract of a letter to her parents, dated Dec. 
29, indicates that trials and loneliness were the 
portion of her cup during this winter. 

*' Dear Parents : — It is now more than two 
weeks since Mr. M. left here for the Cape. He 
has written me that Br. Bidwell is desiring 
soon to leave the Cape, and therefore wishes 
me to come down as early as the packets start 
in the spring. It has been a severe trial to me 
to be left alone with my little ones this winter, 
being separated from all my connections. I feel 
very lonely ; some of the time I think I cannot 
submit to it. But I do not wish to murmur at 
the dealincrs of a kind Providence. We had 



206 MEMOIR or 

made our calculations to visit you before hus- 
band left, but were disappointed. I want Celia 
to come down and spend the winter with me 
and go to school, and get a few scraps of Latin 
— it will give her a better understanding of the 
English language. I shall not go to the Cape 
before warm weather. Please write soon, and 
inform me of the state of religion in your com- 
munity. E. A. MOULTON." 

The class to which E. belonged was now re- 
duced to four members, but was kept up 
through her instrumentality. This class meet- 
ing was almost the only public means of grace 
which Elizabeth enjoyed during my absence, 
as much as she loved the sanctuary. In this 
sacrifice, I think my wife manifested a heroic 
spirit ; willing as she was to deprive herself of 
all the public means of grace, and live alone 
with two little helpless children upon her hands, 
purely that I might preach where there was 
some prospect of being of a little use to my fel- 
low men. Early in the spring I returned to 
Billerica, and moved my family to Wellfleet, 
and tarried there until the next conference 
commenced its session ; then I took my family 
and goods, and started for conference. The 
following letter was written to sister Warren, 
while we were located in Wellfleet, dated 

*' April 19, 1840. 

" Dear Sister : — You have probably heard 
of our removal from Billerica to this place. I 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 207 

took cold on board the schooner, which very 
much increased my cough for several weeks 
after. I felt after I came here, that truly I 
had no abiding place, but was a pilgrim and a 
stranger on the earth. I trust, however, that I 
am seeking one which is to come, which halh a 
solid foundation. The year past, has truly 
been a trying one. We have had to move twice, 
and have seen but little fruit of our labors, &:.c. ; 
still I believe a wise Providence directed our 
steps to this place. I do not think Mr. M. 
could have been hired to stay in Billerica ano- 
ther month. I much admire the equality exist- 
ing among the people here ; but I could not 
persuade myself to live here another year. I 
trust you are still pursuing your christian 
course with delight. I want to see you very 
much. It is now almost four years since we 
saw each other ; but, if faithful, we shall all 
soon meet in heaven. I still find sweet conso- 
lation in the religion of Christ. I prize it as 
my chief good. I esteem it as my highest priv- 
ileore, to retire from the busy cares of life, and 
converse awhile with Deity. O what a gift is 
ours. A throne of grace is made accessible by 
the blood of Christ ; and ' who that knows the 
worth of prayer, but wishes often to be there.' 
Let us take the whole armor of God, and seek 
after that divine fullness which is promised in 
the gospel. Much is now being said and writ- 
ten on the subject of holiness, and I deem it 
highly important to know from personal expe- 



208 MEMOIR or 

rience, that the blood of Christ cleanseth from 
all sin. I believe this inestimable blessing is 
obtained by simple faith — a firm reliance on 
him who has promised it. Many, I think, look 
too high for this blessing, while others come 
not up to the mark. I believe, if we give our 
hearts to the Lord unreservedly, with a willing- 
ness to surrender, we are the Lord's, and He 
is ours. We may then consider ourselves cru- 
cified to the world with its affections and lusts, 
and say, in the language of the Apostle, * we 
live, yet not we, but Christ liveth in us, and 
the life that we now live is by faith on the Son 
of God, who hath loved us and given himself 
for us.' 

" We know not where our lot will be cast 
another year. I much prefer the country, and 
wish we might receive an appointment near our 
friends. I trust you are still pleading the cause 
of the poor slave, and are not growing tired of 
the heavenly way. Be assured you have our 
prayers and best wishes for your present and 
future welfare. E. A. Moulton." 

The journal proceeds : 

April 24 — " We are all now in good 
health and fine spirits. Yesterday, I went to 
meeting at the Alms-house with my husband ; 
had a precious season. One of its inmates 
rose for prayers, and probably about twenty 
spoke after the sermon. Truly, this seemed 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 209 

like old times. Our Congregational brethren 
here can shout as loud as Methodists. All are 
one, when they meet together. There appears 
to be no distinction of sects." 

June 3. — " Our church and congregation 
are large in this place during the winter. 
There is connected with it a large Sabbath 
school. The means of conveyance to this place 
are difficult, especially in the winter, as the 
vessels are generally frozen in." 

June 5. — " Mr. M. attended the anniversary 
meetings in Boston last week. Several minis- 
ters went up in the same vessel. Religion is 
at a low ebb here. Almost every man and boy 
at this season of the year, is on the mighty 
deep, coasting, or catching fish. Consequently, 
but little can be done in the summer, to pro- 
mote revivals, as the married women almost in- 
variably are confined at home with little chil- 
dren. Our congregations now are chiefly com- 
posed of aged men and females. Soon I hope 
to have the privilege *of inhaling again the 
mountain air. Lord direct." 

Elizabeth labored and toiled with me here, 
walking through the sands to attend the means 
of grace, but her usefulness was more limited 
than formerly, owing probably to the prejudice 
that rose against me for making an insurrection 
among the rum-jugs, and rum-drinkers. Our 
18 



210 MEMOIR OF 

usefulness consisted here in preparing the way 
for the coming of the Lord in power. For 
truly, when a new preacher came, and the ex- 
citement on temperance was allayed, the great- 
est revival ever enjoyed there was witnessed. 
Billerica and Wellfleet, the scenes of this 
year's labor, were places of extreme toil and 
suffering to Mrs. M. It may be said of her, 
that she was made " perfect through suffering." 
But from her discouragements the Lord de- 
livered her, by our being appointed to Ash- 
burnham the following year. This was placing 
her in the midst of her connections, and where 
we had territory enough on which to work. We 
found this church rather pro-slavery in its cha- 
racter ; several of its oldest members had never 
come into the temperance measures. Conse- 
quently, some of them had entirely deserted the 
ordinances of the gospel. We both went to 
work, determined to repair the breaches of 
Zion in the name of the Lord, believing God 
had sent us here. Mrs. M. was highly grati- 
tified with this appointment, it bringing her into 
the neighborhood of her parents and sisters, 
whose society she so highly prized. As soon 
as the classes were regulated, we commenced 
holding series of evening meetings in remote 
parts of the town. E. attended whenever cir- 
cumstances would permit. The first meeting 
continued seventeen evenings, the results of 
which were about twenty conversions, and the 
whole church was much encouraged. About this 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 211 

time, the Lord afflicted my wife in the person 
of her sister Celia, who was teaching school in 
the place. No sooner had she recovered from 
a burning fever, which instrumentally brought 
her to God, than Louisa, her adopted sister, 
who was boarding with us, and attending the 
high school, was taken sick also with a raging 
fever, which occupied the attention of Eliza- 
beth much of the time for several weeks. Nev- 
er did I see any person more attentive to a 
sick person than Elizabeth was to her sister, 
besides discharging the duties of her family. 
She did not complain of the weight of addi- 
tional cares, although it was a great affliction 
to her to be so closely confined at home, while 
the fields were all white, and the harvest was 
being gathered ; for in the midst of this afflic- 
tion the work of God was increasing among us. 
My second series of meetings had now com- 
menced in another part of the town, and the 
Lord was working for us gloriously. To and 
from this meeting, which was four miles from 
home, I walked, every night for weeks, in con- 
sequence of sickness in my family. We gather- 
ed into the fold of Christ, as the fruits of this 
meeting, which continued about three weeks, 
some thirty souls. As Mrs. M. was provi- 
dentially detained at home during the progress 
of this meeting, tarrying by the '* stuff," I went 
to the battle without her, almost for the first 
time ; but when her duties called her to stay at 
home she could realize the fulfillment of the 



212 MEMOIR OF 

following scripture : " But as his part is that 
goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be 
that tarrieth by the stuff." 

About this time my wife addressed a letter to 
Sister Warren, giving the following particulars : 

" ASHBURNHAM, OcT. 11, 1840. 

" Dear Sister : — I sit down to inform you 
that we are at present receiving the rod of af- 
fliction. Sister Celia has been sick with the 
typhus fever ; but is now convalescent. She 
continued her school about thirteen weeks, but 
was unable to finish it. Then Louisa was taken 
sick at our house with the same fever. She is 
now very low, and fears are entertained that 
she will not recover. It is now nearly midnight, 
and I write while watching with her. My chil- 
dren have both been sick, but have recovered. 
We are enjoying a glorious revival, which 
sweetens all our trials. Several have been 
converted the week past. E. A. Moulton." 

Immediately after Louisa recovered, our 
little son Theodore was prostrated with the 
same disease. Mrs. M. dreading the very idea 
of giving her son much mineral medicine, 
chose to carry him through the fever without 
medical advice. Having engagements abroad 
to a protracted meeting when our son was at- 
tacked with the fever, I of course declined 
going, and leaving a sick family at home ; until 
Elizabeth thought I had better go, as the peo- 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 213 

pie would then expect me, fully believing that 
God would give her strength and grace to take 
good care of the child. She also had faith 
that God would raise her son to health again, 
and her faith was not in vain, although severely 
tried, when the fever came to its crisis ; yet in 
the course of three weeks, he was playing about 
the house again. Our afflictions now being 
over, Mrs. M., as usual, commenced working 
at her trade, as it was not suitable for her to 
work with me much during the cold weather 
this winter. Had it not been for the money 
Elizabeth received for work done for the pub- 
lic, I know not how we should have lived com- 
fortably some years during our vicissitudes to- 
gether. My companion had learned before I 
knew her, "never to be unemployed, and nev- 
er to be triflingly employed." I will presume 
that she earned from 30 to 50 dollars annually, 
from the time I became acquainted with her to 
the present time, besides taking care of her 
family, and attending with me yearly so many 
meetings. In addition to these duties, her per- 
sonal-effort movements were extensive. She 
probably conversed personally with hundreds 
every year, on the subject of experimental and 
practical religion, from the commencement of 
her toils with me until her tongue was silent in 
death. 

Celia, Elizabeth's youngest sister, having 
now experienced a change from nature to 
grace, the following extract of a letter dated 
*18 . 



214 MEMOIR OP 

January 11, 1841, announces the news to their 
parents : 

*' Dear Parents : — We are still enjoying 
revival seasons among us. Celia, your youngest 
daughter, has at last found the pearl of great 
price. She was brought into the liberty of the 
gospel on New Year's day. She has already 
spoken of her joys in public meetings several 
times. What a source of consolation it must 
be to you, that all your children are walking in 
wisdom's ways ! that all have been made sub- 
jects of redeeming grace ! O may we all pur- 
sue the path that leads to heaven with joy and 
delight, that at last we may all meet in that 
better land to go no more out for ever. 

'' E. A. MOULTON." 

Celia now being adopted into the family of 
heaven, and her anticipated companion with 
whom she was about to unite, being aroused again 
to newness of life, completed the list of the con- 
versions of this whole family of parents 
and children with their husbands. It was 
truly a matter of great rejoicing to Elizabeth 
that she was permitted to live to see them all 
walking in the truth, after a continued struggle 
of prayer for their salvation during almost twenty 
years. It is somewhat remarkable in view of 
all the circumstances, how providentially all 
were preserved, while scattered in different 
places and brought to Christ one by one, 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 215 

Ihrough the instrumentality of faithful and per- 
severing praying, exhorting, and writing. O 
how encouraging are the faithful prayers of 
Elizabeth to all pious females, who have un- 
converted friends. Let them but continue 
ardent and persevering in their pious efforts for 
their salvation, knowing that although the vision 
may tarry long, yet it is written, " The fervent 
and effectual prayer of a righteous man avail* 
eth much," and " in due season ye shall reap if 
ye faint not," — and they will prevail. 

Louisa, while sick at our dwelling, fearing 
she should not recover, earnestly and implor- 
ingly begged my companion to pray for the 
conversion of her soul, promising her that she 
would seek the Lord. But having recovered 
her health, and being about to be married and 
leave home, not having fulfilled her solemn pro- 
mise, Mrs. M. addressed the following note to 
her, reminding her of her solemn obligations 
to God : 

*' Dear Louisa : — How do you now regara 
the interests of your immortal soul 1 Are you 
still striving to make your way to heaven ? 
Have you not vowed, and will you not perform 
your vows unto the Lord ? I have often felt 
ardent desires that you might become a child of 
God — that you might taste those joys which 
are immortal. O seek Christ and prepare for 
heaven. E. A. Moulton." 



216 MEMOIR OF 

The following extract of a letter was ad- 
dressed to sister Warren, dated March 2, 1841 : 

'' Dear Sister : — We are enjoying refresh- 
ing seasons from the presence of the Lord: 
Many have experienced religion, and about 
forty have joined our church on probation. 
And let me tell you that Celia has become a 
follower of the Lamb. Your heart would leap 
for joy could you but hear her speak forth the 
wonders of redeeming grace. O what cause 
have we for gratitude to God, that all our 
family are now on their way to heaven. Mr. M. 
recently closed another series of evening meet- 
ings, held in the south part of our parish, on 
the borders of Westminster. A goodly number 
obtained hope in Christ at this meeting and ten 
united with us on trial. Probably one of the 
most hardened infidels in the town was con- 
verted at this meeting. Mr. M. having held 
several series of meetings in the remote parts of 
our parish with good success, has now drawn 
into the centre, and commenced a protracted 
effort in our meeting-house. 

" E. A. MOULTON." 

Having raised beacon fires in the remote 
parts of the town, our meeting in the centre 
worked admirably. After continuing the meet- 
ing here several nights, the strongholds of in- 
fidelity began to give way, and we continued 
the meetings about forty nights or more, without 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 217 

cessation. During this effort we gathered forty 
souls into the fold of Christ, making in all, this 
year, about one hundred converted to God within 
the limits of our parish. At this last protracted 
meeting Mrs. M. exerted all her strength, help- 
ing to promote the interests of the revival. 
Some of the hardest hearts were brought to bow. 
I learned that no instrument was more efficient 
in melting down the hearts of these hardened 
sinners, than Elizabeth. The harvest in Ash- 
burnham this year was truly great and glorious, 
considering our population. 

I wish to relate a part of the history and vi- 
cissitudes of one man, for the space of about 
three months, who, it was supposed, was aroused 
to a sense of his situation by the faithful labors 
of Elizabeth. This man, who had not attended 
a religious meeting for years, was seen in one 
of our evening meetings, after they had pro- 
gressed for a few weeks, and the same evening 
he was seen at the altar for prayers. But it 
was supposed by all, that he came forward for 
ridicule. He continued to attend meeting, 
however, every evening, but came no more to 
the altar for prayers, although he became 
very serious. After our protracted meeting 
had closed, he came often to our house, and 
conversed freely with my wife concerning the 
interests of his soul, and she encouraged him to 
believe in Christ, and we were animated to 
hope that he was truly converted. He com- 
menced attending our class-meetings, and spoke 



218 MEMOIR OF 

his mind freely ; but this confessing Christ be- 
fore men so enraged his wife, that he told my 
companion, he should have no peace at home, 
unless he ceased going to our meeting. He 
said that he could previously go away to the 
tavern and stay till midnight, without making 
any trouble, but now he could not go to a class 
meeting and spend an hour in the service of 
God, without making his house a Bedlam. He 
was advised, however, to go forward, leaving 
the consequences with God. During this strug- 
gle, his old comrades sympathized with his 
wife, and some soul-destroying Universalist 
handed him a book, which, it is to be feared, 
was the means of completing the work of his 
destruction ; for being asked, a few days after 
he had entirely yielded to the tempter, how his 
soul prospered, he said with much apparent 
feeling, *' My damnation is eternally sealed." 
As striking as it may appear, this sentiment 
was uttered but a hw days before he was taken 
violently sick, and after extreme suffering, his 
body was consigned to the tomb, and his spirit 
passed into the presence of God. During this 
short sickness, none of the church knew the 
state of his mind, for none were permitted to 
speak a comforting word to him on his dying 
bed. Neither was one Christian permitted to 
offer a prayer for him in his presence, to soothe 
his fainting spirits, while sinking down into the 
valley and shadow of death. I knocked at his 
door and imploringly asked liberty to go in and 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 219 

see him, but was denied. My wife also, who 
felt intensely for the interests of his soul, went, 
again and again, but was not permitted to see 
his face. So died this man as the fool dieth. 
Mrs. M. mourned much that a neighbor who 
had lived only a few rods from our door, should 
sicken and die, and she not have one opportunity 
to adminster consolation to his soul on his dy- 
ing couch, having previously had so many op- 
portunities to recommend him to Christ. 

During the progress of this last series of 
meetings, Br. Smith, one of the preachers who 
came to help me, was taken sick. This occu- 
pied much of the attention of my wife for two 
or three weeks ; still as she felt deeply for anx- 
ious souls, she found some time every night to 
go to some part of each evening meeting while 
it continued. She also took some active part 
in every religious meeting which she attended. 
If there was no time for exhortation, she al- 
ways found time for prayer, and to go into the 
congregation after the anxious. Some of the 
most hardened sinners in the village will un- 
doubtedly rise up and call her blessed, in the 
day of judgment, for the exertions she put 
forth for the salvation of their souls. Her exer- 
lions were not confined to the meeting-house ; 
when opportunities presented, she went into the 
families of believers and unbelievers, inviting 
them to come to meeting and to the Savior. In 
this revival more of the converts than usual, as 
well as the older members of the church, 



220 MEMOIR or 

praised God for the instructions and prayers of 
Elizabeth in their behalf. 

Our protracted efforts for the conversion of 
sinners having closed for the present conference 
year, and much of the fruit being gathered in to 
the church, vi^e commenced a campaign against 
intemperance which, in its results, worked to a 
charm. 

Notwithstanding the town had taken a vote 
this spring not to approbate any person to sell 
intoxicating drinks, a man, who had hired some 
rooms in the town-house in which to keep store, 
went to Worcester and obtained license of the 
county commissioners to retail it. The tem- 
perance men called several meetings to concert 
measures to counteract the influence of this 
rum-seller, but all seemed to avail nothing until 
the women took it in hand — Elizabeth taking 
the lead of this enterprise. And what think you 
was their conclusion, while deliberating at the 
first meeting? It was to try to starve this 
rum-trafficker. They took the following mode. 
They fii-st chose a committee whose duty it 
was to obtain all the female signers who would 
pledge themselves not to patronize his store, 
and after procuring one hundred signatures, 
they met at an adjourned meeting and drew up 
a set of resolutions deprecating his course, &c., 
but promising to patronize him as soon as he 
would give up his traffic. The ladies having in- 
formed hiin of their doings, he spurned at their 
proposals, disdaining the very idea of changing 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 221 

his course at their request — thinking that the 
rum party would sustain him in his traffic. But 
the persevering efforts of the females soon 
made his traffic so unpopular, that even his 
old friends and customers were ashamed to be 
seen calling at his store, fearing that all who 
called, would be charged with buying rum. In 
a few weeks after the ladies commenced this 
starvation process, the rum-seller was obliged 
to cut and run, notwithstanding he had re- 
ceived a lease of the town-house for three 
years. No one was more active than Elizabeth 
in this enterprise, and probably no one rejoiced 
more in obtaining such a signal victory in the 
temperance cause. Let it here be observed, 
that the ladies obtained this victory, while the 
gentlemen were consulting what measures they 
should take to obtain it. This rum-seller being 
forced to give up his traffic, no temperance per- 
son pitied him. 

Elizabeth hud now become so identified 
with the interests of this society, and the Con- 
gregational society too, and the people were 
so united to her in affection, that it would have 
been hard parting had we been removed at the 
close of this year. 

The following letter was directed to her 
adopted sister just before conference, dated 

'* ASHBURNHAM, JuNE 28, 1841. 

" Dear Louisa : — You will excuse my neg- 
ligence in writing, when I tell you that a multi- 
19 



222 MEMOIR OF 

plicity of cares has prevented. Our children 
have had the measles, whooping-cough, chicken 
pox, and the mumps, since you were sick here. 
Br. Smith, from Lunenburg, also was confined 
here two weeks. So you see that I have had 
much business, and many cares on my hands. 
We visited sister Lucy in May, and found her 
very pleasantly situated. We have also been 
at father's since you left. I was sorry to hear 
of your poor state of health, but hope you are 
better now. 

" We have had a large accession to our 
church in this place since you left. We have a 
large congregation, and a very interesting Sab- 
bath school. Considerable is being done here 
at present, in the temperance cause. We are 
to form a cold water army on the fourth of 
July. We are calculating also to have a Sab- 
bath school celebrcition in the Grove the same 
day, where we expect to hear several speeches, 
and after these, to partake of some refreshment. 
I did intend to visit you during the session of 
conference at Worcester, but it will not be 
practicable. 

" I hope and trust you are not wholly regard- 
less of those things which will make for your 
peace here, and hereafter. Possibly, the sub- 
ject of religion may appear to you dry and mo- 
notonous; but be assured, it is a subject which 
most deeply concerns us all, whether you be- 
lieve it, or not, I hope you, and your dear 
husband, will not fail to secure an interest in 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 223 

Christ ; for religion will lay the rough paths of 
nature even, and open in the breast a little hea- 
ven. I shall think of you both and pray much 
for you, as your eternal interests lay near my 
heart. I hope, should we not be permitted 
to meet again on these mortal shores, we shall 
be so happy as to meet in heaven to praise God 
for ever. E. A. Moulton." 



CHAPTEU XIL 



Having returned to Ashburnham the second 
year, we learned that some Methodist back- 
sliders had been usincr their influence acrainst 
us. One, on hearing of my re-appointment, 
was so deeply afflicted, that, giving way to 
temptation, he became very much excited in his 
feelings, and took an oath that he would never 
hear me preach again. Then, to satiate his 
bad feelings, he went almost tliree times as far 
to hear a Universalist preach, and after a while 
invited him to come into our Methodist com- 
munity, Sunday evenings, and give lectures, 
where probably no Universalist had ever 
preached before. The minister complying with 
his request, made an appointment to come in 
two weeks from that Sunday, commencing his 
exercises at 4 o'clock, P. M. In about one 
week, as the Providence of God ordered it, 
this aggrieved man was taken sick, and struck 
dumb, so that he could not speak one word 



lELlZABEtH ANJS MOULTON. 225 

to his friends. They could understand him, 
however, by signs. Seeing that he was deeply 
humbled in his affliction, believing that the 
judgments of God had overtaken him, I faith- 
fully exhorted him to give his heart to God, 
asking him if he would try ; he made a great 
effort to answer me in the affirmative, but could 
not speak. His very countenance, and actions, 
evinced to me the mental agonies of his mind. 
But the most convincing testimony that his 
course was displeasing to God, was exhibited 
in the following fact : the very liour that the 
Universalist was invited, hy his request, tO 
preach a sermon, laas the very hour that I was 
called to attend his funeral. 

The revival having now subsided in Ash- 
butnham, we Went to Winchendon Springs, 
and held a series of evening meetings. Her6 
the Lord wrought gloriously for us, and we 
formed a society of about forty members. My 
companion's labors were so signally blest at 
this meeting, that the people were hardly will- 
ing that I should come and preach without 
bringing her to assist me. 

We then made an effort in Ashby to save 
souls, and after enforcing truth upon the con* 
sciences of the hearers three or four weeks, 
contending earnestly for free and full salvation, 
against the prejudices of the people, the Lord 
converted about forty more to himself This 
meeting served as a key to open the way for 
Methodist preaching in the beautiful town of 
*19 



226 MEMOIR OF 

New Ipswich, containing about two thousand 
inhabitants. This was truly a walled town. 
The doctrines as preached by the Calvinists, 
had reigned triumphant here from the settlement 
of the place; consequently, the Methodists had 
found no place for the soles of their feet. 

There was a large Congregational church 
consisting of about five hundred members, and 
a small Baptist church of about fifty members, 
struggling hard for life. 

There having been no revival in this town 
for years, the churches had become very luke- 
warm and proud. I learned that the ministers 
at this time opposed females opening their* 
mouths in public meetings, believing it a 
'* shame for women to speak in a church," A 
Congregational brother having heard of our 
success in Ashby, a town joining New Ipswich, 
ventured to invite me to preach a lecture in the 
school-house in the village where he lived. 
Having accepted the invitation, I sent an ap- 
pointment, making calculations in my own 
mind, should the Lord open the way, for a long 
continued effort. At the close of the first meet- 
ing, I proposed, with diffidence, being a stran- 
ger, the propriety of holding another, the fol- 
lowing evening, as I wished to make some calls. 
None objecting, I announced the appointment 
and closed the meeting. The second evening 
the congregation had greatly increased, and it 
was perceived that seriousness had fastened 
upon the minds of many who were present. I 



£L1ZABETH ANN MOULTOWo 227 

then appointed another, and so continued 
through the week ; announcing one meeting at 
a time, fearing every night that the farther con- 
tinuance of ray meeting would be opposed, as 
there were no Methodist brethren in the place 
to sustain me. Saturday evening, after meeting, 
I returned to Ashburnham to spend the Sab- 
bath, leaving an appointment to return again 
Sunday evening. I now informed my wife that 
I wished her to prepare for another campaign. At 
this period the seriousness had become general 
in the district where the meetings were held j 
but the ministers of the place, not knowing that 
my design was to continue the meeting, had not 
as yet come out to see what the Lord was doing 
for the people. But no sooner did my wife 
come, than it was noised abroad that none 
ever spoke like her ; after which we were soon 
thronged with hearers. Some then wished me 
to move the meetings to the town-house, in the 
centre of the town ; others requested me to ad- 
journ to the Baptist meeting-house. I thought 
proper, notwithstanding this advice, to remain 
where I was, and divide the meeting, calling the 
anxious and some praying souls into a private 
house, while all others crowded into the school- 
house. During the latter part of the second 
week, the Baptist minister came to our meeting 
one evening, making many apologies for not 
having attended before. 

At the commencement of the third week, I 
think, the Congregational minister was an- 



228 MEMOIR OF 

nounced as being in the congregation, I asked 
him to take a seat with me and make some re- 
marks after sermon, but he refused either to 
sit with me, or to take any part in the exer- 
cises. I now apprehended, by the signs of the 
times, that a storm might be expected ahead ; 
nor was I mistaken in my apprehensions, as the 
sequel will show. Having now gained some 
foothold, I gave out notice that meetings would 
be held every evening during the week, think- 
ing, should I defer the meeting one evenings 
the place would be occupied by another minis- 
ter, who, I believe, was now waiting for an op- 
portunity to take the ground. 

The next night, Mr. Lee, the Congregational 
preacher, came again, and made some remarks, 
but in a fault-finding way, cautioning the peo- 
ple against receiving error, &c. These remarks 
nerved up Mrs. M. to exhort and pray as I 
hardly ever heard her before, being filled with 
the Ploly Ghost. Mr. Lee continued two nights 
more, each night giving contrary instruction to 
the anxious from what they had received, labor*- 
ing hard to impress the people with the idea 
that this revival was the result of his preaching, 
and the long continued prayers of his church ; 
and therefore more than hinted, that he ought 
to have the control of the meeting, and manage 
the revival. It was now clear to my mind, that 
he would be the means of destroying the revi- 
val unless he should be arrested in his course. 
He, being opposed to females improving in pub- 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 229 

lie meetings, labored hard one evening to pre- 
vent my wife from speaking, by improving the 
time himself, which was appointed for the social 
meeting. Then turning to me, he said, " If 
you are not ready to commence the public 
exercises, I will preach." Said I, " Go ahead." 
He commenced exhorting again, but as the 
wheels rolled rather heavily, he soon yielded 
his position. Then Mrs. M. rising, being full 
of the spirit of her Savior, delivered a message 
which produced such a thrilling effect on the 
minds of the audience, that even Mr. Lee af- 
terwards, as I understood, said to a member of 
his church, '' I am willing that that woman 
should improve her gift." 

The next evening, which was the last he 
came there, his feelings being much excited, 
his course was so very objectionable to me and 
most of the people present, that I arose and 
informed the congregation that it was evident 
to all, that Mr. Lee was determined to crush 
my influence by his exceptionable course, in 
publicly criticising every sentiment and mea- 
sure which did not accord with his views ; and 
therefore, I called upon the audience to sustain 
the meeting, and the means then being used, 
which had already resulted in the conviction and 
conversion of many souls. To these remarks Mr. 
L. replied, asserting his right to detect error, 
whenever advanced among his own people, and 
therefore called upon his church, many of whom 
were present, to stand by him in this exigency, 



230 MEMOIR OF 

appealing to their consciences whether" it was 
not his right to expose strange doctrines wher- 
ever advanced. To this reply, a rejoinder was 
given, in which I noticed his unheard of breach 
of the rules of politeness, in thus disturbing a 
peaceable assembly collected for religious ser- 
vices. He rose once more, and plead for the sym- 
pathies of the people, &c., referring to his 
prayers, labors, and sacrifices among them; "and 
now," said he, *' will you forsake me, and follow 
the counsels of a stranger ?" He was then in- 
formed peremptorily that we should not aban- 
don the field, so long as the Lord blessed, and 
the people would sustain our feeble efforts. 
The meeting then closed in some confusion, 
after Mr. L. had advertised the audience that he 
should be present every evening, and expose 
whatever of false doctrine might be advanced. 
The next evening came, and multitudes assem- 
bled, but my antagonist did not appear. His 
friends, as I afterwards learned, met and advised 
him to come no more. During all this rupture, 
the work of revival progressed in an unprece- 
dented manner, considering the circumstances. 
It being impossible to accommodate the people 
in our two present places of worship, after w^e 
had continued the meetings here twenty-one 
evenings successively, I ventured, on my own 
responsibility, to remove it to the town-house 
in the centre of the town. And as Mrs. M. 
could not attend with me constantly, I engaged 
a preacher to assist rae a few evenings. After 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 231 

having continued here two weeks, afternoons 
and evenings, with glorious success, the Con- 
gregationalists, having invited to their help 
several clergymen, commenced a protracted 
meeting. Here we continued side by side with 
them three or four weeks longer, without any 
intermission. And such management to draw 
the young converts from our meeting to theirs, 
I never saw before ! One of their ministers 
stood at the door of the town-house several 
afternoons, during the time that the people were 
assembling, entreating one and another to at- 
tend their own meeting. 

Up to the sixth or seventh week the Baptists 
generally attended our meeting ; I then learned 
that Mr. Lee proposed to the Baptists to unite 
with them, promising when they should close 
their meeting, that they would reciprocate their 
attendance. To this proposal the Baptists con- 
sented, expecting by this forced union of effort, 
undoubtedly to counteract my designs in building 
up a new church in the place. But before the 
Congregationalists were willing to give way for 
the Baptists to commence the meeting in their 
house, we commenced gathering in the fruit of 
our revival. This course soon terminated the 
union meeting between the Congregationalists 
and Baptists, but we held on our meetings, 
minding our own business, until they had con- 
tinued about eighty nights. Through this long 
series of meetings we judged that about three 
hundred had been converted at our altars : but 



232 MEMOIR OF 

by a continual storm of persecution against us 
as a people, and a regular organized system of 
proselyting, many were drawn away from our 
church, and many, it is to be feared, from 
Christ. About one hundred who were aroused 
to a sense of their guilt through the instrument- 
ality of the Methodists, united with the Con- 
gregationalists, about twenty with the Baptists, 
and about eighty with the Methodists. The 
remainder, having heard so much said against 
us, refused to join any of the churches, and 
probably most of them soon lost their first love. 
Having now been long from home, with my 
wife laboring and suffering, side by side, with 
me much of the time, and being obliged to 
spend several Sabbaths here, and supply my 
people at Ashburnham, the brethren there had 
become dissatisfied with my course, being so 
long neglected. In this s'raitened situation, 
knowing that it would not do to neglect the 
converts in New Ipswich one Sabbath, I adver- 
tised in Zion's Herald for help, and Br. H. B. 
Skinner responded to the call. But while mat- 
ters were maturing for his services, the devil 
stirred up an adversary against me in Ashburn- 
ham, who warned me out of the house in which 
we lived. This I received as providential, in- 
dicating to me that it was my duty to move my 
family to New Ipswich. The brethren there- 
fore, agreeing to accept of the labors of Br. 
Skinner in Ashburnham, and pay him for his 
services the remainder of the year, I immedi- 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 233 

ately. repaired to New Ipswich to share in their 
vicissitudes, and receive what they might be 
willing to allow me for my services. 

This move was a great trial to Elizabeth, who 
had become strongly attached to Ashburnham :" 
still she thought it providential, and therefore 
submitted without a murmur, believing God 
had called us to make this sacrifice. We doubted 
afterwards whether this was not a hasty step, as 
the remainder of the year was one of deep men- 
tal, and outward conflict to us both, occasioned 
partly by the trial produced by the change in 
Ashburnham, and partly by the increased per- 
secution of the lambs in New Ipswich. Br. 
Skinner soon introduced Millerism into the 
church in Ashburnham, which resulted in di- 
vision, and rabid Come-out-ism. In this move- 
ment the church received a stroke from which 
I fear it will never recover. 

By the time we had settled in our new field 
of labor, there had been some falling off from 
us ; our enemies being diligent among the con- 
verts, during a few days absence. My dear 
companion and myself, however, went to work 
acrain, trying to strengthen and confirm the con- 
verts in the faith. 

At this time the Baptists had dismissed their 
preacher and settled a new one, whose hand 
was against every man ; and as I would not fight 
with him, he commenced a quarrel with the 
Concrregationalists, which continued for a sea- 
son. His character afterwards being developed, 
30 



234 MEMOIR OK 

he was deposed, and soon *' went to his own 
place," or among his own class, and is now a 
vile abuser of the churches of Christ, During 
this rupture between those professed union par- 
ties, we had a little respite among ourselves. 

Being now convinced that we could not sus- 
tain ourselves without a permanent place of 
worship, the brethren, although mostly poor, 
made an effort to build a house for the Lord. 
Nine persons, with myself, obligated ourselves 
to become responsible for its expense. This un- 
dertaking turned the attention of our enemies 
towards us again, and two of the nine were im- 
mediately dissuaded from their engagements. 
The responsibilities of building then rested on 
seven. This burden I knew not how to bear, 
but Mrs. M. believing that the Lord would re- 
ward our enterprise, encouraged me to proceed, 
saying, " the Lord will provide for me and our 
children." I was surprised that she was so willing 
to have me sacrifice what little she had saved in 
the course of years by hard work and by practis- 
ing the most rigid economy, knowing that previ- 
ously she had been anxious to lay up a little some- 
thing for a future day. I knew not then that she 
was bordering near the heavenly land. Neither 
did I then know that she had a presentiment in 
her own breast that her departure was nigh ; al- 
though she had often hinted that death might 
be near. Her thoughts having now become so 
absorbed in the glories of that better land, that 
it appeared, she wished her little interest there. 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 235 

believing God would amply provide for the 
family. 

We all proceeded and soon erected a beauti- 
ful house of worship, dedicated it to the Lord, 
and I had the pleasure of preaching in it the 
first Sabbath. The session of our conference 
now being at hand, we took our leave of these 
tender lambs, after having given them up to the 
pastoral watchcare of the New Hampshire con- 
ference. This conference cordially received 
them, and has yearly provided them with pas- 
tors, who have faithfully watched over their 
spiritual interests, and fed them with the bread 
of life. And had it not been for the withering 
influence of Millerism, which crept in there 
soon after our departure. New Ipswich would 
now have been one of our most flourishing 
country stations. 

I have long detained the reader with our five 
months' tour in New Hampshire, not merely on 
account of the blessed revival we enjoyed there, 
and the circumstances connected with it, but 
because it was in this place, that an incident 
transpired in connection with the abundant 
labors of Elizabeth, which laid the foundation 
of her final sickness. It is evident, although she 
continued with me about one year from this time, 
in labors more abundant than ever, that she had 
premonitions of her near approach to the end- 
less joys of heaven. The holy influence which 
she exerted here on community generally, will 
not soon be forgotten. Many of the young per- 



S36 MEMOIR OF 

secuted converts, especially the sisters, will 
long remember that her home was an asylum for 
them in time of trouble and persecution. An 
opportunity to comfort their souls and feed 
their bodies, was a great gratification to her 
mind. And when about to take her final leave, 
many gathered around her, to receive her part- 
ing blessing, as it flowed from her lips. Many 
looked up to her as their spiritual mother, 
thanking God for the instructions they had re- 
ceived, and the consolations she had adminis- 
tered to them again and again. 

I frequently felt some misgivings at the sacri- 
fice we had made in instrumentally building up 
this branch of Christ's church, but as often, did 
Elizabeth check my murmurings, citing me to 
heaven for my reward. 

The revivals here, at Ashby, and at Win- 
chendon, and the blessed state of prosperity we 
enjoyed while in Ashburnham, constituted this 
a great and glorious year in our brief history, 
notwithstanding it proved to be a year of un- 
precedented temporal embarrassment and sac- 
rifice. 

The following is a letter written to sister 
Warren, dated 

" New Ipswich, March 27, 1842. 

^^ Dear Sister: — Being now permitted to 

enjoy a few moments of retirement, a privilege 

which I have not often enjoyed during the fall 

and winter past, I will improve it in writing. 



fcLtZ,ABKtll AMV M0ULT05. 2!^f 

The year past has been one of almost continual 
hurried scenes of confusion ; hut I bless God, 
that we have been carried through thus far. I 
have repeatedly resolved to write to you, and as 
often neglected it. No less than two persons 
have presented themselves at the door since I 
commenced this scroll. But I will again pro- 
ceed. The work of salvation has been progress*- 
ing powerfully among us for months in this 
place. My husband commenced a series of 
evening meetings in one of the villages in this 
town, in December last, which with the excep- 
tion of a few evenings, have continued down to 
the present time. A more general work of grace 
than this I never witnessed. Persons, from the 
aged sire down to the child of eight years old, 
have shared in this blessed work. In the history 
of this great revival, of the conversion of 
hundreds, I might relate many interesting par- 
ticulars, but time will not permit. Suffice it to 
say, it has been a season of great and deep in- 
terest among us. We thought it expedient to 
leave Ashburnham and move to this place, for 
several reasons. One was, our little, newly or*- 
ganized church was about building a meeting- 
house in the centre of the town, and they very 
much needed our assistance, lest the enemy 
might divert them from their purpose. We 
shall not probably stay here longer than up to 
the time of the session of our next annual con- 
ference. Mr. M. does not wish to be trans- 
ferred to the New Hampshire conference. The 



238 MiEMOiR OF 

canker-rash is prevailing here and cutting down 
the children. Twenty have died since the year 
rolled in. Our little son had a slight touch of 
it. Four persons lay dead in town yesterday* 
Mr. M. has just returned from meeting. Se* 
veral rose for prayers. 

" I trust you are still engaged in securing a 
treasure in heaven. I think I never felt more 
sensibly the importance of living in constant 
readiness for death than of late. I think the 
world sits as a loose garment about me, and I 
can say that I never loved it less. It has no 
charms for me ; but holiness, that brightest gem 
of the christian, is my untiring motto. O my 
dear sister, seek for this inward testimony. 

" E. A. MOULTON." 

Holiness was still the great theme on which 
the subject of our narrative delighted best to 
dwell, and so untiring were her eiforts on this 
subject, in New-Ipswich, in pressing home this 
truth on the minds of the young converts, that 
the whole society were apparently aroused to 
the importance of seeking this inestimable pearl 
of perfect love, and several experienced its 
power before we removed. We afterwards 
learned that this panting and thirsting for full 
redemption had declined in this young church. 
Never did I realize the effect which the ex* 
hortations, prayers, and counsels of Elizabeth 
produced while enjoying her society. Never, 
no never, did I know her worth as an instru- 



ELIZABETH AWN MOULtON. 239 

ment for waking up the churches to the all- 
important subject of holiness, until the hand of 
death had removed her far away from my em* 
brace. Truly, the very atmosphere in which 
she breathed, was holy. All denominations ac- 
quainted with her, believed the circle of friends 
in which she moved, were benefitted by her 
precept and example. 

From New Ipswich providence removed us 
to Oxford, where the labors and trials of Eliza- 
beth terminated. Having some premonitions of 
the shortness of her stay on the earth, she sunk 
more deeply into the will of God than, ever, 
counting not her life dear unto herself, so that 
she might finish her course with joy, and be 
ever ready to enter into the abodes of the Eter- 
nally Blessed. 

The brethren in Oxford had petitioned for 
years that they might enjoy the benefit of our 
labors, consequently we were warmly received. 
No sooner were we settled in our new station, 
than we waged perpetual war against the powers 
of darkness in this place. 

One circumstance that occurred long before 
we came to this station, is worthy of notice. A 
leading brother in this church dreamed that we 
were appointed to preach in Oxford, and that 
through our instrumentality the whole region 
was engaged in one general work of reforma- 
tion. This dream was so deeply impressed on 
this brother's mind, that he fully believed, 
could our services be obtained, this dream 
would be realized. 



^MO MEMOIR OF 

He said he knew just how we looked, and 
could he see the preacher, he could select him 
from the whole conference of preachers, al- 
though at this time an entire stranger. So san- 
guine was he of this fact, that he came to con- 
ference, one year before our appointment there, 
and as soon as his eyes were fixed on me, he 
said, " That is the man whom I saw in my 
dream." He then came to me, wishing me to 
use my influence to become their preacher the 
ensuing year, and obligating himself to become 
responsible for my ample support. But a circum- 
stance happened in Ashburnham during the 
session of this conference, which made me be- 
lieve it my duty to return there another year. 
Still the influence of this dream, and the 
anxiety occasioned by it, in the hearts of some 
of the brethren, thinking it might possibly be 
from the Lord, were probably the instrumental 
means used in fixing our location this year 
on the beautiful plains of Oxford. 

We make the following brief extracts from 
letters written in Oxford, to her parents, and 
brotheis and sislers Warren and Smith ; as 
they indicate the state of her health, and of 
her religious enjoyment during two or three 
months. She notices also the commencement 
of a glorious revival at the factories in Oxford, 
which abated after some thirty souls were con- 
verted. But after an interval of some fout 
months it commenced again, and progressed 
more rapidly than before. This revival pro- 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 241 

bably received a check from tlie excitement 
raised about this time on the temperance ques- 
tion, which, when settled in the church in favor 
of abstinence from all intoxicating drinks, took 
a new start, and soon spread throughout the 
whole town. 

" Dear Parents, — Doubtless you are anxious 
to know how we do, and how we like old Ox- 
ford. We are in usual health, myself excepted. 
I am now, however, fast recovering my health. 
One week ago, to-day, I was taken very ill, 
and my case was considered extremely dan- 
gerous, but through the mercy of God, and the 
attendance of a kind physician, I was soon re- 
lieved. I think I have abundant reason to 
praise God for his tender mercy towards me, 
who am so unworthy. I now feel that the Lord 
has still a work for me to do, and, with the 
assistance of his grace, I am resolved to do it. 
We like our station very well, and are expect- 
ing good seasons this year. 

E. A. MOULTON." 

Oxford, Sept. 22, 1842. 
'' Dear Parents, — I am now happy to inform 
you that my health is unusually good. We are 
already enjoying, at the North Factories, a re- 
vival of religion. Some twenty or more have 
recently found the Lord, and others are inquir- 
ing. Seventeen were received on trial, last 
Saturday evening. We are expecting more to 



*242 MEMOIR OF 

join soon. We all went to Pomfret camp-meet- 
ing. We had a very interesting time. The 
Lord blessed his people, and converted sinners. 
I saw many of my old friends there, with whom 
I used to associate, — most of whom stand in 
the liberty of the gospel of Christ. 

" We have meetings in Oxford every night, 
and I have attended almost every evening for 
some time past. I have been greatly blessed, 
both in body and soul, since I came to this 
place. I thought, when I last saw you, it 
would be very doubtful whether we ever met 
again on earth, although I said but little about 
it ; but God, for some wise purpose, has seen 
fit to spare me ; and now I am determined to 
do more in the vineyard of the Lord than ever, 
by his grace assisting me. I think I never en- 
joyed so great liberty of soul, in speaking and 
praying, as of late. My peace has been like a 
river, while I have thought upon the goodness 
of God to unworthy me. I trust you are both 
walking in the truth, and striving for heaven. 
Do not let the world too much engross your 
minds. I hope, dear mother, you will join the 
church in full connection, that you may enjoy 
all the ordinances of God's house. Your peace 
would then be greater, and your mind more 
established. E. A. Moulton." 

" Oxford, Sept. 22, 1842. 
" Dear Br. and Sister Smith, — We are all 
enjoying good health, and have prosperity in 



ELIZAUETH ANN MOULTON. 243 

all our borders. Glory be to God ! I feel like 
laboring in God's vineyard. I think I have not 
enjoyed so much religion for years as I have of 
late. My peace is flov^ing like a river, as I 
pass along down the current of time. I think 
I never enjoyed more complete victory over the 
world and all its allurements, than for three 
weeks past. I think our appointment here was 
ordered of the Lord. We have now a good 
revival in progress. Twenty or more were 
hopefully converted last week, most of whom 
united with our church, on trial, last Saturday 
evening. We have had a hot battle with rum- 
sellers and rum-drinking professors; but not 
without success. Blessed be God ! I think 
our church is now clear of the accursed thing. 
The only two rum-taverns in the place have 
recently blown their last blasts. As Mr. M. 
took the lead in this enterprize, we are now 
branded by the wicked with the epithet of 
' Moulton's laws,' &lc.; but this we care not for, 
as the object of this warfare is accomplished. 

" I have met with many of my old friends 
since I came here, with whom I formed an ac- 
quaintance some fourteen years since, — many 
of whom are still living witnesses for Christ. 
I often look back with pleasure upon the bless- 
ed seasons we enjoyed together when at Ash- 
burnham. I trust you are both pressing your 
course towards heaven. I feel a deep interest 
for you, and often think of you when at a throne 
of grace. O, my dear Celia, trust in God, and 



244 MEMOIR OF 

he will sustain you in your most trying circum- 
stances. Give God your whole heart. I have 
not taken in a stitch of needle-work since I 
came here, and do not think 1 shall, as I wish 
to give myself wholly to the work of saving 
souls. I hope you still keep up your class and 
prayer meetings. O, that heaven may vouch- 
safe to you His richest blessings, is the prayer 
of your unworthy sister, 

Elizabeth A. Moulton." 

It will be perceived, by reading the above 
extracts, that the subject of our notice still had 
some presentiment that her work upon earth 
would soon terminate, or that the Lord had en- 
joined it upon her to devote a larger share of 
her time to the more public duties of religion. 
Every year previous to this, since our acquaint- 
ance with each other, Elizabeth thought it her 
duty to spend some portion of her time in 
tailoring. This year she came to the conclu- 
sion, deliberately, that it was her duty to lay 
this work aside, and devote herself, with me, 
wholly to the work of revival, when practica- 
ble. Although she considered her health now 
good, yet her constitution had become much im- 
paired by her continual labors and sufferings 
the year previous. Notwithstanding this, she 
now resolved to try to do more to advance the 
Redeemer's kingdom than she ever had done 
•before ; and, ere she closes her pilgrimage, it 
will be seen that her last days were her most 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 245 

useful and happy. Having consecrated herself 
to God entirely, her soul now became enrap- 
tured with the glories of the cross, and the suc- 
cess of the gospel of Christ. 

The temperance struggle, to which she al- 
ludes, caused the whole cliurch to fear with re- 
gard to its results. But fully believing that 
God would not do any mighty works among us 
out of the church, while we tolerated sin in the 
church, we pushed the battle through, leaving 
the consequences with God. And after a pain- 
ful and vigorous effort of some weeks, the Lord 
gave us complete victory over this foe. While 
this temperance battle was waxing hot, Eliza- 
beth and some of the sisters prayed earnestly 
that God would have mercy on our erring 
brethren, and save them from the intoxicating 
cup, and the church from dividing. One even- 
ing, said Mrs. M., we got into such an agony, 
praying that God would save them, that one 
sister lost her strength while praying for one 
of the delinquents, but soon shouted, clapping 
her hands and crying, " God has heard prayer. 
The Lord has given us victory," &/C. And to 
the surprise of all, this brother soon came for- 
ward and signed the temperance pledge. 

This temperance triumph in our little church 
turned the scale in a vote of the town, for the 
first time, in favor of temperance principles. 
My interference, however, in this cause, which 
was attended with such glorious success, 
brought out a large portion of the unconverted 
21 



246 MEMOIR OF 

part of the community against me, during the 
heat of this excitement, which greatly counter- 
acted ray influence among poor sinners, for a 
season. These things will account, in part, for 
my mission labors abroad about three months, 
waiting for the excitement to be allayed in Ox- 
ford. The revival referred to had now come 
to a stand, probably owing to the excitement 
on temperance. 

" Oxford, Oct. 25, 1842. 
" Beloved Br. and Sister Warren, — I think 
I have enjoyed a greater victory over the world 
since I came here than ever before. Glory be 
to God, I feel that my treasure is all above. I 
have laid all upon the altar of sacrifice. ' For 
me to live is Christ, but to die would be infinite 
gain.' We are pleasantly situated ; but I miss 
very much the society of our sisters in Ash- 
burnham, which I enjoyed the two last years. 
We are now having a blessed revival in Lei- 
cester, whither we are expecting to go this af- 
ternoon. I visited Louisa (the adopted sister) 
when at Leicester last. I think she has found 
the consolations of religion, although her evi- 
dence is not bright. Her husband, I think, is 
serious. Elizabeth A. Moulton." 

The revival referred to in this extract, de- 
serves a place in this memoir, as the subject of 
it was actively engaged in its promotion, and 
greatly instrumental in its progression. The 
beautiful and popular village of Leicester has 



ELIZABETH AWN MOULTOIV. 247 

enjoyed Congregational preaching from its set- 
tlement, but no Methodists had ever obtained 
foot-hold here until about this time. Our in- 
troduction into this place was brought about 
by Br. Barnes, who lived in the north 
part of the town ; he belonged to the 
Methodist church in Worcester. He gave me 
an invitation, early in the fall, to come into the 
place, and hold a few meetings in the town- 
house. I consented to go, and sent on the 
appointment for one evening only. Before the 
time arrived, however, to commence this meet- 
ing, my dear brother expressed some doubts 
whether we had better proceed with our con- 
templated meeting, having been advised, as I 
afterwards learned, by some of his friends, to 
abandon this project. To which I answered 
him in substance as follows : — " Having made 
arrangements for this meeting, I cannot now in 
conscience abandon it, until we have made a 
trial. Nay, should you all forsake me, and 
should the town-house be closed, as you antici- 
pate, rather than leave the place now, I will 
climb upon the horse-sheds, back of the town- 
house, and contend with ihe cold north-east 
winds alone." He finally consented to have 
me make a trial, and opened the town-house. 
The Lord manifested his approval of our meet- 
ing by converting one soul the first evening. 
This was the commencement of a series of 
meetings, which continued about eight weeks, 
every night, either in the town-house or some 



248 MEMOIR OF 

of the school-houses ; the days mostly being 
occupied in visiting from house to house, warn- 
ing the people of their danger, and pointing 
them to the Lamb of God. This novel manner 
of proceeding soon aroused the people from 
their slumbers. The Congregationalist minis- 
ter began to fly round among his people, warn- 
ing them against being led away by excitement, 
and using means, as I had reason to apprehend, 
to hedge up our way in the town. But, pro- 
bably not being so much accustomed to visiting 
as myself, he could not keep pace with me. 
The people too, having been stupid so long, 
and hearing of the powerful meetings, would 
break over their sectarian prejudices, and come 
out and see for themselves what was going on, 
until their pastor appointed meetings of his 
own, to keep his people from ours. Even then 
our congregations were large. What contri- 
buted much to the interest and prosperity of 
our revival amidst all the opposition and perse- 
cution which we encountered in planting a new 
church in this place, was, the continued and 
persevering faithfulness of Elizabeth in exhort- 
ing and praying for the people. Notwithstand- 
ing they had been educated to believe the fe- 
males must keep silence in all the churches of 
Christ, they received her testimony as readily as 
if she had been an angel of God. The young 
converts clustered around her for instruction, 
and looked up to her as their spiritual mother. 
She always had a word of encouragement to ad- 



Elizabeth anS moulton. 249 

minister to the young and tender lambs. So 
anxious was she for the spiritual welfare of 
this people, that she thought it her duty to be 
with me most of the time ; sometimes bringing 
her children with her, while at other times they 
Were left in the care of other hands. We re- 
mained here faithfully using the means of grace 
among the citizens until we had organized a 
new church consisting of about eighty mem- 
bers, and had secured for them a good preacher. 
They have ever since enjoyed statedly the pub- 
lic means of grace. Then we returned again 
to Oxford, where the brethren for some time 
had been supplied by our local preachers. 
After holding a kw more meetings at home^ and 
perceiving that our brethren generally were not 
yet ready to co-operate with me in putting forth 
an extra effort for the salvation of souls, I sus- 
pended our meetings at home again, and imme- 
diately repaired to the town of Charlton, and 
commenced an extra effort there. After having 
continued this meeting with good success two 
weeks, I removed it about four miles into the 
borders of Dudley, at Tufts' factories, where I 
continued holding meetings about three weeks 
longer. Here we added about forty more to the 
church on trial. The results of these extra 
means of grace in Charlton and Dudley en- 
couraged the brethren in these two places to 
send to the conference for a preacher ihe fol- 
lowing year, and having obtained one, they 
have since alternately enjoyed the blessings of a 
*31 



250 MEMOIR. 

preached gospel. My companion, having be» 
come much fatigued in her arduous struggles 
with me at Leicester, and the brethren at Ox* 
ford desiring her presence at home in my ab- 
sence, did not spend much time abroad with me 
in my last campaign against the enemies of 
Christ. 



CHAPTER XIII. 



The brethren at Oxford had now become 
quite impatient at my long absence from theraj 
and more than hinted that unless I was more 
dutiful to their wishes, I should be obliged to 
suffer the penalty growing out of the bread and 
cheese law. Consequently, the following Sab- 
bath evening I informed the congregation that 
I was then ready to work at home if the church 
would stand by me. They manifesting a dis- 
position to work and do what they could to 
sustain our feeble efforts, I then announced to 
the audience a series of meetings, which, hav-^ 
ing commenced that night, would continue 
eighty evenings successively. To this procia* 
mation a hearty response was given by some of 
the brethren. But before I proceed to narrate 
the progress and particulars of this revival and 
the all-absorbing interest Mrs. M. took in its 
promotion, I will insert two brief extracts from 
her letters. The following extract to Br. and 



252 MtMOIR ot 

sister Squier, of Wales, is in harmony with 
what we have related concerning our departed 
friend. As she is drawing near the gates of 
death, her labors are more abundant, and her 
entire deadness to the world is manifested in 
her writings. O what a divine cheerfulness and 
elevation of mind the enjoyment of holiness 
gave its possessor. It gave her a hallowed charm 
for all that is heavenly and divine, and weaned 
her affections from all that is worldly and 
sinfuL 

'' Oxford, Nov. 25, 1842. 

" Dear Bro. and Sister : — As Mr. M. has 
left a space in his letter directed to you, I 
gladly sit down to fill it up. I regretted that we 
Could not visit you at the time of your sickness. 
We were then much engaged in holding meet- 
ings. I have been to Leicester four times dur-* 
ing our protracted meeting there. Some of the 
time I was obliged to board out Elizabeth, and 
take Theodore with me. I have not taken in 
any work since I came to Oxford. Although 
my health is good, if I do not overdo. I find 
my constitution, however, much impaired, since 
my last sickness. Sister Louisa probably re- 
lated to you the circumstances. 

" I feel that God is dealing faithfully and 
mercifully with us as a family. I think we never 
felt greater deadness to the world than at pre- 
sent. Never more given up to the work of sav- 
ing souls. I have heretofore been too anxious 
about the body, but now the salvation of souls 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 258 

is my one object. Glory be to God, I feel that 
I was never nearer heaven than at this moment. 
I have given God my undivided heart, with a 
determination never to take back the sacrifice. 
I am sure it is high time that we were all holy, 
since it is God's command and will that we 
should be. There is much said and written at 
present upon the second advent of Christ — re- 
lative to his speedy coming to set up his king- 
dom upon the earth. Many are in the full be 
lief, that he will come in power and great glory 
next year. Should it be so, how it becomes us 
to be ready, watching for the sudden approach 
of that awful and glorious event. I have no 
settled opinion on this subject. Many things, 
however, indicate some great event at hand. O 
may we all be ready, that when called, we may 
enter upon the endless joys of heaven and sing 
hallelujahs to God and the Lamb for ever. 
Amen. E. A. Moulton." 

" Oxford, Dec. 5, 1842. 
" Ml/ Dear Louisa : — We are all in health 
and good spirits. I think we never enjoyed more 
of the divine presence than of late. I trust you 
are striving for the kingdom. O be not weary. 
God is abundant in mercy. Trust in Him and 
you will be safe. I think much of you and your 
dear husband. I am hoping and praying that 
you may both become the decided followers of 
the meek and lowly Jesus. I received a letter 
this morning stating tkat Br. Warren is near 



254 MEMOIR Of 

the close of life. We have written to Lucy, 
and are waiting with the deepest anxiety to hear 
from them. O how soon may all our earthly pros- 
pects be blighted. Hence the necessity of hav- 
ing our treasure laid up in heaven, where neither 
moth nor rust can corrupt. 

" E. A. MOULTON." 

Having now commenced our eighty nights' 
meeting, we continued it some two or three 
weeks without any great encouragement, except 
it was manifest that the brethren and sisters 
were gradually rising in spirituality. We now 
doubted whether we should be able to sustain 
the meeting as long as we had published it to the 
world. Some anxious sinners however, present- 
ing themselves at the altar for prayers almost eve- 
ry evening,and we continued on holding meetings 
until more than fifty nights had passed. At this 
period the work took a more general spread, and 
some of the hardest sinners were brought to bow 
at a throne of grace, and cry for mercy ; and 
when the eighty nights were past, we had estab- 
lished meetings in other parts of the town, and 
our meeting in the centre appeared now only just 
to have got well under way, — the brethren, but 
just harnessed for the battle. The revival had 
now taken a new start at the factories, where it 
first commenced, to which some reference has 
been made. The revival having become so 
powerful at the factories, and having as much as 
I could do at the meeting-house, several of the 



ELIZABETH ANJN MOULTON. 255 

brethren gave up most of their time for many 
weeks to the work of holding meetings there, 
and to visiting from house to house. IN ever was 
it my lot to enjoy the society of any brethren 
who sacrificed as much time, and labored as dili- 
gently, day and night, for the salvation of perish- 
ing sinners, as did the brethren in Oxford, who 
stood side by side with me in wet and cold, dur- 
ing the one hundred nights which our meeting 
continued. V/e sent them out two by two, as 
it were, in every direction, and they returned 
saying in substance that the *' devils were sub- 
ject unto them." In this revival, from its 
commencement, we numbered about one hun- 
dred and fifty converts. 

During this long series of meetings, Mrs. M, 
did not miss attending more than three or four 
evenings ; neither did she ever fail to open her 
mouth in prayer and exhortation, whenever a 
suitable opportunity presented itself. And 
many a time did she go into the congregation, 
and importune with the convicted smner to 
come to Christ, and to the altar for the prayers 
of the church. Besides attending meeting and 
to the duties of the family, and waiting upon 
the company that she entertiiined at her house, 
during its long continuance, she also found 
time to visit the penitent and the careless, and 
invite them to come to meeting and to the Sa- 
vior. Some hardened sinners, who fought 
against the strivings of the Spirit through the 
whole revival, will remember how anxiously she 



256 MEMOIR or 

plead with them to go to meeting and give 
their hearts to God. 

After this protracted meeting closed, so great 
was her anxiety for the conversion of sinners, 
and to try to be instrumental in establishing 
the young converts in the faith, that she re- 
peatedly told me that she felt that she wanted 
to be among the people all the time. 

To Mrs. Whitman, wife of Rev. Joseph 
Whitman, Mrs. M. addressed the following let- 
ter while the above protracted meeting was in 
session ; to which are subjoined some very per- 
tinent remarks from Mrs. W. 

" Worcester, Feb. 23, 1843. 
'' Dear Sister, — Having just arrived here 
with my parents, I thought I must write you a 
few lines. I rejoice to hear that old Fitchburg 
at last has taken a mighty shaking, and the dry 
bones are now coming to life. Truly you have 
great reason to praise God for what He is now 
doing in your midst. What can be more satis- 
factory than to see the pleasure of the Lord pros- 
pering in our hands'? I trust that you, and 
your husband too, have the witness in your own 
souls of an entire consecration to God. Well, 
how blessed it is to feel that we are the Lord's 
entire. Yea, and how highly important to be 
useful in the vineyard of the Lord. The young 
lambs will need a great deal of tender nursing, 
and prompting to duty, to keep them alive unto 
God. I have sometimes thought, that to estab- 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 257 

lish young converts in the faith, required as 
much effort on our part, as to get them con- 
verted. For we know, from experience and 
observation, that unless they grow in grace and 
are established in the faith of the gospel, they 
will soon lose their first love. I suppose you 
wish me to give you a little account of the re- 
vival among us. I can assure you, it is a 
blessed one. The work, however, has been 
gradual, but very deep and pungent. The 
faith of christians is so strong, that when 
the penitents present themselves at the altar, 
we are almost sure of their conversion. I have 
devoted nearly all my time to the great work 
of saving souls, since I recovered my health. 
I think I can truly say that I never enjoyed 
greater peace, and greater deadness to the 
world, than for a few months past. Glory be 
to God, I feel while I write that God has the 
entire affections of my heart, and that I am 
wholly His. O, my dear sister, let us trust on, 
nor faint, nor tire, in the king's highway, al- 
ways remembering that the crown is at the end 
of the race. Yours, in gospel bonds, 

*' Elizabeth A. Moulton." 

'' Malden, March 25, 1844. 
''Br. Moulton: — This letter was received, 
as you will perceive, a few months before the 
death of your wife. It was perused with much 
pleasure and profit. Sister Moulton was one 
of my choicest friends. Her society was such as 
22 



258 MEMOIR or 

I loved. Her theme was salvation, and her spirit 
ever partook of heaven. I loved her as a friend, 
as a christian sister, and as a companion of a 
Methodist minister. As such, I ever wished to 
imitate her worthy example. Such zeal, perse- 
verance, and entire devotedness to the cause of 
God is rarely found. I think of her now with 
much profit to my soul. Though dead, she still 
lives in my memory, and often speaks to me by 
her precept and example. I rejoice that you are 
about to publish her memoir. I believe it will 
prove a blessing to all into whose hands it may 
fall. May the God of all grace be with you and 
bless you in preparing the work. 

" Eleanor Whitman." 

We have not knowingly designed to impress 
the reader, in the preceding pages, with the idea 
that the subject of our notice was endowed with 
superior talents, or that she possessed any extra 
advantages. Her native talents probably, were 
not m.uch above mediocrity, and her literary ac- 
quirements were no greater than many now re- 
ceive at our common schools. But the great 
secret of her success consisted first in her deep, 
glowing, and persevering principle of holiness 
which she enjoyed in her own heart. And 
secondly, in her continued persevering efforts to 
do good. She resolved to he good and to do 
good. She made up her mind in early life to 
seek for all that God had promised in His word, 
and when obtained, she resolved by the grace of 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 259 

God to carry out the principle of holiness by 
doing all the good she could. By prosecuting 
these heavenly designs, she was enabled for 
about eighteen years to be a living and con- 
stant witness for Christ that his blood cleanseth 
from all sin, and that in Him is no darkness at all. 
With this heavenly and abiding principle in her 
soul, the path of duty was marked out plain be- 
fore her eyes, and she resolved to do it regard- 
less of consequences. The closet was a place 
to which she often resorted. No exercise pro- 
bably was prized higher by her than communion 
with God in secret. No engagements prevented 
her from her regular hours of devotion daily. 
Nor did she copfine herself to this duty three 
times a day merely, as some do; but oft was 
she there pleading with God in prayer. The 
Bible was her daily companion and her chief 
study. From its precious promises she often 
drew consolation to comfort the mourner, and 
from its threatenings arrows to alarm the care- 
less sinner. When absent myself the family 
altar was never deserted, and when present it 
was always her privilege to take a part in this 
heavenly exercise. The children too, were 
taught by her at a very early age to repeat the 
Lord's Prayer, and other appropriate prayers in 
family devotion, — a practice which they still 
continue. Our children now think of reading 
and praying with us daily, as much as we do 
ourselves. By being faithful at home in all her 
domestic, social, and religious duties, God en- 



260 MEMOIR OF 

dowed her with strength to do all her duties 
abroad. 

The riches of divine grace were magnified, 
and his name honored in choosing Elizabeth 
Ann Arnold from a family whose parents knew 
nothing of the power of godliness; in making 
her somewhat instrumental in their conversion, 
and in enlightening and comforting the hearts 
of thousands. This great honor was conferred 
upon her, because she was faithful to the grace 
given her. She possessed not uncommon gifts, 
but faithfully improved all the talents committed 
to her trust, and by thus doing, added other 
talents to those given her. Her holy boldness, 
having risen entirely above the fear of man, 
and her happy art of communicating all she did 
know, contributed much to the success of her 
labors. 

How encouraging then is the success of Eli- 
zabeth to all true-hearted, pious females, 
whether possessed of one, two, or five talents, 
to work in the vineyard of the Lord. Then 
cheer up to the duties of the cross, my sisters, 
and soon God will give you complete victory 
over all your inward foes, and make you instru- 
mental of saving your fathers and mothers, 
your sisters and brothers, your husbands and 
children, and the friends with whom you asso- 
ciate, from pursuing their passage in the broad 
road which leads to destruction. James saith, 
" Let him know that he which converteth the 
sinner from the error of his way shall save a 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 261 

soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of 
sins," Then remember, my sisters, there are 
responsibilities rolled upon you, which no other 
person can perform to that circle of friends in 
which you move. 

The following extract from the last letter she 
ever wrote, was addressed to Br. and sister 
Warren. As this letter relates mostly to social 
affairs, I shall only make a brief extract from it 
for the purpose of appending a few remarks 
written by her sister, Lucy Warren, on the 
back of one of the letters, which she forwarded 
to me for publication, and also for the sake of 
making a few remarks respecting her last visit 
to her friends. 

" Oxford, March 23, 1843. 

'^ Dear Br. and Sister: — Having a few 
leisure moments this evening, I will employ 
them in writing. Our dear parents visited us 
in February. They were in good health and 
fine spirits, enjoying more religion than ever 
before. We have enjoyed a gracious revival in 
this place. Probably about one hundred souls 
have been converted during a series of meet- 
ings which have continued eighty evenings in 
succession. I have had quite enough to do the 
present year, without working at my trade. I 
think we enjoy as much religion, if not more 
than at any former period. God is dealing 
bountifully with us, both temporally and spirit- 
ually. I think we shall not stay here another 
year. Mr. M. some expects to be employed on 
*22 



262 MEMOIR OF 

.missionary ground another year. We expect now 
to take a journey to the North ill May, and visit 
New Ipswich before we return. I wish we could 
meet you thereabouts. E. A. Moulton." 

Sister Lucy says of her lamented sister : 

" Of her faithfulness to me some of these 
letters will testify. She always manifested a 
deep interest in my spiritual welfare. Often did 
she exhort me to flee from the wrath to come, 
and secure an interest in Christ before it should 
be too late. Without doubt it was owing, un- 
der the blessing of God, in a great measure, to 
her faithfulness and prayers, that I was led to 
see my lost condition and submit to Christ. 
After her conversion, which took place when I, 
was quite young, she ever manifested a deep 
interest for the conversion of the family, and 
especially for mother. To this fact you are a 
witness. I recollect of her once falling upon 
lier knees by the side of mother, and pouring 
out her soul to God in prayer for the salvation 
of her soul. At another time, after returning 
from a prayer-meeting and retiring to her 
chamber, she was in such an agony for mother 
that she could not rest. On opening the Bible, 
she read the following words, ' He that goeth 
forth weeping, bearing precious seed, shall 
doubtless come again rejoicing, bearing his 
sheaves with him.' From that time she never 
doubted but that her mother would become a 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON- 263 

christian. She always sought the best good of 
the family. Td her we were accustomed to go 
for advice, both in our temporal and spiritual 
affairs, and felt safe in abiding by her judg- 
ment. And now, though we have long been 
separated, I feel that the loss our family has 
sustained, is irreparable.*' 

It seemed in this last protracted meeting 
which Mrs. M. ever attended, which continued 
one hundred nights, that my companion was 
doing her last work. To the promotion of this 
revival she gave all the time she could spare 
from her domestic concerns. At the close of 
this meeting, she was much worn down with fa- 
tigue, and complained much of the headache, 
but we apprehended nothing serious. After we 
had gathered the fruit of this revival into the 
church, and arranged the classes, we made our 
calculations to visit our friends, as Mrs. M. was 
very anxious this spring to see all her connec- 
tions, and mine. Having spent some time in 
the society of her parents, and sisters, and the 
new society in New Ipswich, we returned 
home, expecting, after two weeks rest, to visit 
my relations; but the providence of God inter- 
fered, and our intentions were thwarted. Some 
sentiments were expressed by her during our 
visit, which impressed her friends with the idea 
that Elizabeth thought she should not see them 
all again. One was, she said to her mother, 
" You must take the children, if I should not 



264 MEMOIR or 

live ;" and when returning home, she observed 
to me, *' that her father's house would make a 
good home for our children, should she be 
called away." The manner she expressed this 
to me, produced a deep impression on my mind. 
From these remarks, with other incidents which 
happened, I am convinced that she had some 
indications from the hand of Providence that 
her end was nigh. After our return from our 
journey, Elizabeth still continued her personal- 
effort labors among the people, although her 
health was evidently declining. Her last public 
efforts to do good, which took place but a few 
days before her entire physical prostration, were 
the followino^. She went amona a class of our 
unconverted friends over whom J had but little, 
or no influence, soliciting subscriptions to com- 
plete the sum of fifty dollars for the Sabbath 
school Library, and exhorting them to seek an 
interest in the Savior. The next evening, I 
should think it was, she went with me to the 
house of a rich unconverted man who lay on 
a sick bed, near the borders of eternity. This 
man having imbibed some prejudice against me 
previous to his sickness, I said but little to him 
this evening; but Mrs. M. commenced, with 
lier heart full of sympathy, beseeching him to 
give his heart to God, presenting to his troubled 
spirit some of the great and precious promises 
of the gospel. In this sympathetic address to 
his conscience and feelings, I observed that the 
heart of this sick man was melted into contri- 



ELIZABETH A.NJV MOULTOIV. 265 

tion and deep penitence. And truly it was an 
affecting scene to see my dear wife for the last 
time standing over the bed of a dying man, 
when hardly able to be from home herself, and 
hear her exhorting him in the most pathetic 
strains to be reconciled to God. This call, I 
think, in the hands of God, was made instru- 
mental in opening the eyes of this dying man, 
and, as we humbly trust, of bringing him to 
the Savior at this critical moment. Probably it 
was the good effects which this short call pro- 
duced, in connection with the moving influence 
of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, which led 
this man in his last sickness to bequeath to the 
Methodist church in this place, the handsome 
donation of five hundred dollars for the purpose 
of enlarging their meeting-house, which had 
now become too small for their convenience. 

The last public effort Elizabeth ever made 
was the following Sabbath, and this Sabbath 
was the last she ever enjoyed in the temple of 
God with the church militant. This day many 
of the young converts were to be baptized, and 
my companion, though very restless the night 
previous, thought she must have one more pri- 
vilege of enjoying the society of the saints. 
Knowing the state of her health, I advised her 
not to go but half a day, and be sure not to go 
down to the water side. But intermission hav- 
ing come, and hundreds flocking to the place de- 
signated for baptism, having such an intense 
desire to follow the crowd, she let her feelings 



2G6 MEMOIR OF 

overcome her judgment, and went with the mul- 
titude. Here she was very active in encourag- 
ing the converts to duty, and in helping change 
the baptizing gowns from one sister to another, 
until all were baptized. Elizabeth, exposing 
herself here to the water, while the north-east 
wind was blowing fresh upon us, renewed her 
cold. She now returned from the water to the 
meeting-house, and heard her last sermon. 
From the meeting-house, she returned home 
much exhausted with the labors of the day, and 
immediately threw herself upon the bed, and 
hardly rose from it again, except when helped 
up to have it made. She said, she had great 
reason to bless God for this day's privilege, al- 
though apparently, it had occasioned her great 
prostration of body. 

As strange as it may appear to many, I had 
a warning of her death, the Thursday night 
previous to her being taken sick. This night, 
I went to our stated meeting at the North Fac- 
tories, calculating to return home the same 
evening. The weather being rather unplea- 
sant, I was persuaded to tarry over night. 
When asleep in bed I imagined that I saw my 
wife in the arms of Jesus, and the children and 
myself standing at a little distance, and full of 
trouble. So deeply was this sentiment im- 
pressed upon my mind, that I awoke full of 
anxiety concerning the dream. Its interpreta- 
tion being clear to my mind, I hastened home 
before my family rose, and found all as well as 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 267 

usual, except Mrs. M. was suffering some with 
a bad cold. The dream, however, made such 
an impression on my mind during the day, that 
I thought I must relate it to my wife. Having 
rehearsed it, neither of us made any comments 
on it. I had great reason to praise God for 
this interposition of Divine Providence, for it 
enabled me to fortify myself for the awful con- 
flict, by renewedly consecrating myself to God. 
Expecting now that God was about to make a 
breach in my family, I prayed much for grace 
to sustain me. From Thursday until Sunday, 
when she took her bed, she was evidently 
gradually failing. During these few days, she 
had some severe conflicts with Satan, and was 
apparently in heaviness through manifold 
temptations. Saturday night she was very rest- 
less all night, suffering probably both in body 
and mind. But this was the last conflict she 
ever had with the adversary. When the beau- 
tiful sun arose, Sabbath morning, although weak 
in body, she was animated with the anticipated 
privileges of this blessed occasion, and said that 
she must go to meeting hal f a day. When noon 
came, she was not willing to deny herself the 
privilege of seeing the young converts bap- 
tized. On her return from the water, she 
wanted to hear one more sermon, and enjoy 
one more privilege of kneeling with her breth- 
ren and sisters at the table of the Lord, and of 
commemorating with them his sufferings ; an- 
ticipating that this might be the last time that 



268 MEMOIR OF 

she should have this blessed privilege with the 
saints below. So she tarried all day without 
any refreshment, and when she returned home, 
being completely exhausted, she took her bed, 
and after suffering severely about eleven days, 
her spirit took its flight to the Paradise of God, 
there to remain until the judgment of the great 
day, after which the Savior will say unto her, 
and all the blood-washed throng, "Come, ye 
blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom pre- 
pared for you from the foundation of the 
world." 

Elizabeth blessed the Lord that she was per- 
mitted to go to meeting this last Sabbath, al- 
though she caught an addition to her cold, for 
it was daring this day that she gained a com- 
plete victory over all the powers of darkness. 
Although death, hell, and the grave, in clamor- 
ing for their victim had aroused Satan to hurl 
at her all his fiery darts, at this critical moment ; 
yet, through the strength of Jesus, the Captain 
of her salvation — having hung her hopes, and 
her all, upon her Redeemer's cross — she 
weathered the storm, although fierce was the 
contest on the battle field, and came off more 
than conqueror through Him who had loved 
her. She now took her bed in glorious triumph, 
although the body had become all weakness. 
She had now fought her last battle with the 
devil. Although she had not now sheathed her 
sword, yet the advecsary of her soul was never 
permitted after this even, to suggest one temp- 
tation to her mind. 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 269 

Having now prayerfully commended all her 
connections abroad to the care of her Heaven- 
ly Father, she manifested no particular desire 
to see any of them again except Lucy, whom 
she manifested great anxiety to see before she 
left the world ; but the providence of God so 
ordered events that she did not enjoy this pri- 
vilege. Before she was thought to be danger- 
ously sick by her physician, she took an oppor- 
tunity to converse alone with me one morning 
about our social and religious affairs, and then 
after giving me some good advice, committed 
me to the care of Him who never sleeps nor 
slumbers. The character of this interview with 
my wife was such, that time will never efface it 
from my memory. It was her last private in- 
terview with one with whom she had labored 
and suffered almost eleven years. This was a 
heart-searching and melting season to us both. 
Painful indeed was it to me, to see my dear 
wife weeping on her sick and dying bed, while 
rehearsing over her vicissitudes with me in full 
view of the expectation of soon leaving me for 
a better world. But the tears which rolled 
down her pallid cheeks this morning, were the 
last she ever shed, and these were tears of joy 
and affection ; for she said, during this inter- 
view, that her soui was unspeakably happy. 
Having tried to pray for my companion, from 
the time of my singular dream, that God would 
preserve her to me, and the children, a little 
longer, without having any access or faith when 
23 



270 MEMOIR OF 

pleading that her life might be prolonged, I be- 
came convinced that it was God's will to take 
her soon to Himself, and therefore, submissively 
committed her case into the hands of that Being 
who is too wise to err ; believing God's name 
would be honored, and His cause advanced in 
the deep trials I now saw before me. I had 
previously seen persons reconciled and happy 
at times, on sick-beds, and have heard shouts 
of glory to God, just before the spirit has taken 
its flight to the spirit-land ; but never before 
did I see a person, who, through all her sick- 
ness, possessed momentarily that faith which 
gave constant resignation, and sweet sub- 
mission to the will of God. She appeared, 
when sick, as willing to suffer the will of God, 
as when well, to do it. We could discover in 
her no hallucination of mind during her last 
sickness, except when first aroused from sleep. 
So great was her distress, however, that she 
had but very little, or no sleep, during the last 
sixty hours of her life, but God's grace enabled 
her to triumph to the last. No dark cloud, or 
temptation, for one moment, pervaded her mind, 
either by day or by night. No murmur escaped 
from her lips. Neither did she even desire, as 
I could learn, to have her situation altered, or 
that of her family, except she wished after her 
decease to have the children placed under the 
care of her parents, to which I consented. 
Then she committed them to the care of Him 
who gave them to her, consecrating them anew 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 271 

to God, by laying her pallid hands on their 
heads, and invoking the blessings of heaven on 
their souls. Never after this, did she express 
the least anxiety for the future welfare of the 
little ones, having, previous to her illness, re- 
ceived an evidence in answer to agonizing, and 
persevering prayer, that God would adopt the 
children into His family, and make them heirs 
of heaven. 

The news having spread that Mrs. M. was 
very sick, and that her soul was on the mount, 
exhorting all who came in to see her, the peo- 
ple flocked in scores, and hundreds, to see her, 
and listen to the strains of mercy which flowed 
from her lips. To all she made some appro- 
priate remarks, until her strength failed her. 
She was so anxious to do a little good upon her 
death-bed, that we permitted her room to be 
mostly filled with visiters for several of her last 
days. Nor was she satisfied with speaking to 
those only, who came in voluntarily to see her ; 
but remembering some poor sinners in the 
neighborhood, who had resisted the Spirit 
through the protracted revival which they had 
witnessed, she sent for several of them to call 
and see her. Sope came to gratify her wishes, 
others would not. And surely, it was enough 
to melt the hardest heart, to see her eagerly 
grasp the hand of the impenitent man, after 
the body had become all weakness, and to hear 
her inviting him by all that was lovely and glo- 
rious in heaven, to come to Christ. A few of 



272 MEMOIR OF 

the last with whom she conversed, so exhausted 
her strength, that she was obliged, after she 
commenced talking, to stop for breath, then 
begin again, and thus continue holding on to 
their hands, until her message was delivered. 
It was truly heart-cheering to her friends, to 
hear the voice of a dying saint on the very 
threshold of eternity, still relating the story of 
the cross, with a fullness of glory in her soul. 
In her life (hey had seen the glories of the cross 
exemplified, and in her sickness and death, its 
victories. Two days before her death, she had 
become so exhausted, that she informed me 
that she feared she should not be able to re- 
ceive any more company ; but at this time, the 
desire of the people had become so intense to 
look at her, having heard of her heavenly ex- 
hortations, coming as it were from the dead, 
that we could not well prevent her room from 
being thronged much of the time, but she did 
not converse much with them. Her work being 
now closed, all sublunary objects seemed to be 
removed far away from her mind, and her soul 
firmly fixed on heavenly objects. Her parents 
having arrived the night before she died, she 
appeared to be very glad to s^ them, but con- 
versed but very little with them, or any other 
one after this, as her weakness of body was 
great, and her mind wholly absorbed in the 
heavenly glories. About two o'clock the next 
morning, she was struck with a death struggle, 
and it was thought she would immediately quit 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 273 

this vale of tears; but reviving a little, she con- 
tinued lingering and struggling with the mon- 
ster, until about four o'clock, P. M. Not only 
were her soul and spirit sanctified to God, but 
her body too ; for it shone with the glory of 
God even after the spirit had fled from its cas- 
ket. Still she had no great rapture of joy at 
any period of her illness. Her's was a steady 
peace, like a river, and a constant victory ; oc- 
casionally, however, she shouted for the battle, 
crying " Glory to God," but often did she say 
*' that her soul was unspeakably happy." The 
grace she possessed, triumphantly bore up her 
spirits, while the rough sea of affliction was 
raging, and the cold rude winds of death tossing 
her foundering bark, near the yawning ocean 
of eternity. In this crisis, she called for a slate, 
wishing to note down a few things which she 
wished to give to her friends ; but finding her 
strength was too far gone to use a pencil, she 
then tried to communicate verbally her wishes 
to us, after which her mind was again fixed on 
her future reward. When Elizabeth came to 
her last hour, she remained the same calm, col- 
lected person, possessing the gift of reason as 
bright as ever. When drawing almost her last 
breath, she, by request, gave a gentle squeeze 
with her hand, denoting that she knew us, and 
that all was well, although death had struck, 
and Elizabeth was just ceasing to stem the tide 
of life. When the wheels of time had ceased 
to move, the body looked so perfectly natural, 
*23 



2l74 MEMOIR or 

and pleasant, with a sanctified smile upon the 
countenance, that some of her friends doubted 
whether she was dead, and were very anxious 
that the body should be kept uijtil there should 
be an alteration. But the parents desiring that 
the body might be buried in the ground on 
their own land, her remains were carried to the 
meeting-house the next morning, at nine 
o'clock, and after listening to an appropriate 
discourse, suited to the solemnities of the occa- 
sion, by Rev. Benjamin Paine, the body was 
removed the same day to her father's house in 
Lunenburg. The next day her connections 
and friends came and took the last view of 
their departed friend, and after listening to a 
solemn address by the Rev. Mr. Tracy, of 
Fitchburg, her body was deposited in the family 
burying-ground of her parents, to remain until 
the resurrection of the just, and unjust ; then it 
will arise, and again re-unite with its happy 
spirit, which is now resting in paradise, and 
enter upon the endless glories of heaven, to 
chant the notes of redeeming love in a world 
without end. Amen. 



ELIZABETH ANN MOULTON. 



275 



Two beautiful marble grave-stones, presented 
by the ladies of Oxford, mark the place of her 
repose ; on the front of the one placed at her 
head, is the following inscription : 



DIED, IN OXFORD, JUNE 1, 1843, 

WIFE OF 
REV. HORACE MOULTON, 

FORMERLY WIFE OF 

« 

REV. SAMUEL ESTIN, 
AGED 35 YEARS. 



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